Young Love: Pros and Cons of Marrying Before 25

You’re 22, madly in love, and ready to conquer the world with your partner. But should you put a ring on it? Let’s dive into the pros and cons of marrying before 25, because who doesn’t love a good relationship rollercoaster?

Remember when your African auntie said, “You’re too young to marry, finish your Master’s first”? Well, she might have a point – or not. 

Take Chelsea Damon, author of “I Thought This Would Make Me Happy.” She and her beau Josh went from campus lovebirds to newlyweds at 21. 

Now in their 30s, they’re still going strong, leaving parties early together and exchanging knowing glances across crowded rooms.

But before you start shopping for Ankara wedding outfits, let’s break it down:

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The Pros of Marrying Before 25

Here are the pros of early marriage: 

Growing Together

Marrying before 25 means you’re still malleable, like fresh pap. You haven’t developed rigid habits or unshakeable opinions yet. 

Maybe you’re both trying to navigate the corporate world in Lagos or figuring out how to balance career and family expectations in London. You get to shape these experiences together, creating shared memories and inside jokes that will last a lifetime.

Financial Teamwork

Two incomes, one dream. Starting early means you can pool your resources and build wealth together. Think of David and Victoria Beckham – they tied the knot at 24 and 25 respectively. 

Now they’re not just couple goals, they’re empire goals. Imagine combining your entry-level salary with your partner’s side hustle income to save for that dream home in Lekki or invest in Toronto’s real estate market.

Better Sex Life (Yes, We Said It)

Research suggests that couples who marry younger tend to have more satisfying sex lives. It’s like getting a lifetime pass to explore and grow together intimately. 

You’re less likely to compare your partner to past experiences, and more likely to openly communicate your desires and fantasies.

Higher Chance of Lasting Marriage

A study in the Social Science Journal found that those who married between 22 and 25 had the highest likelihood of a quality, intact marriage. It’s like planting a seed early – with proper care, it grows into a mighty iroko tree of a relationship.

Marrying Before 25: What Could Go Wrong?

Now let’s discuss the cons: 

Identity Crisis, Anyone?

Your 20s are when you’re supposed to be “finding yourself.” One day you’re passionate about cryptocurrency, the next you’re considering moving to Ghana to start an organic cocoa farm. 

Tying the knot early might mean navigating these changes while also being someone’s spouse. It’s like trying to solve a Rubik’s cube while riding a bicycle.

Career Compromises

When you’re young and in love, it’s easy to prioritize your relationship over your career. But what happens when one of you gets a scholarship to study in Canada while the other is climbing the corporate ladder in Nigeria? These decisions become infinitely more complex when you’re married.

Financial Struggles

Let’s be real – most of us aren’t balling in our early 20s. Starting a marriage on a diet of indomie and dreams can lead to stress and arguments. 

You might find yourselves debating whether to buy data or save for rent, or choosing between visiting family in the village or saving for a honeymoon.

Higher Divorce Risk (Plot Twist!)

While some studies show benefits to marrying young, others suggest a higher divorce rate for those who tie the knot before 25. It’s like playing Russian roulette with your heart. 

The pressure of navigating cultural expectations, financial challenges, and personal growth can sometimes be too much for young couples.

The Verdict?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some couples, like Chelsea and Josh, thrive on young love. Others need more time to marinate in singlehood, focusing on personal goals or building their careers.

Interestingly, research in Demographic Research found that women who delay marriage often make unconventional matches with higher marital instability. So, waiting until you’re established in your career or have traveled the world doesn’t guarantee a happily ever after either.

In the end, it’s not about age – it’s about maturity, commitment, and finding someone who’ll debate with you about jollof rice (Ghanaian or Nigerian?) for life. 

Whether you’re 22 or 42, when you know, you know. Just make sure you know before you start sending out those wedding invitations.

READ: How to Manage Anger in Your Relationships

Ever caught yourself ready to unleash a torrent of words that would make your partner’s ears burn? 

In our African diaspora communities, managing anger in relationships can feel like navigating a minefield. Click here.