It's like a weight that suddenly falls upon you the moment you hit 25 and enter the realm of adulthood. The quarter-life crisis hits you like a tidal wave, and you find yourself grappling with responsibilities you never thought much about before.

You're expected to secure a good job, earn a certain amount of money, and, of course, find a life partner. But let's be honest, getting married doesn't hold the same importance as building a successful career or creating a better life for yourself. Yet, those around you seem to believe that hitting a certain age automatically means it's time to settle down and start a family.

I've personally experienced this firsthand. I've been with my husband for 12 years, including our time as girlfriend and boyfriend. When I was single, I constantly faced relentless questioning about when I would settle down. Now that I'm in a committed relationship, I understand why people are curious about it, but I, too, had my own uncertainties. I had no clue when my partner would pop the question, and I eagerly anticipated that moment. Social gatherings became a breeding ground for constant pressure and interrogations.

But here's the thing: regardless of whether that proposal comes when expected or not, the lingering feeling of needing to get married takes a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. It becomes an additional burden amidst all the other significant responsibilities and pressures life throws at you.

CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE

Now, let's talk about the cultural significance attached to marriage. In some cultures, it still carries immense weight as a symbol of social status. Marriage is considered the cornerstone of family life and the foundation for raising children. In these cultures, the pressure to get married is even more intense. Think of Asian countries, where parents often arrange marriages for their children. It's deeply ingrained in their traditions and beliefs.

SOCIAL ANXIETY

Then there's the social anxiety that comes along with not being married. Imagine attending any social gathering—a party, a family event, or even a casual get-together. All you see are people your age who are either getting married, preparing for marriage, or happily discussing their married lives. And if you're not in that boat, brace yourself for a barrage of questions from relatives who feel it's their duty to pester you about finding a partner. It's enough to make anyone apprehensive about socializing and meeting new people.

BURNOUT

The pursuit of marriage can also lead to burnout. When you invest significant time and energy into searching for a life partner and things don't go as planned, it's easy to lose hope and become overwhelmed by disappointment. It becomes a draining cycle that takes a toll on your emotional well-being.

And let's not forget about the impact this pressure has on mental health. My uncle, who had cared for me during my younger years, chose not to attend my wedding. He felt a deep sadness within himself, as he remained unwed and was ten years older than me. He had experienced two failed engagements, which only added to his sense of melancholy. It's heartbreaking to witness someone you love suffer under the weight of societal expectations.

DEPRESSION

The pressure to get married can trigger feelings of sadness and hopelessness, especially when it seems like finding a partner or achieving your goals is an elusive endeavor. The social shaming disguised as concern from loved ones is disheartening, and it can make you feel like your support system is crumbling.

It's vital to understand that marriage should be an equal union between two individuals who are deeply in love, rather than a means to fulfill an identity or seek validation.

Moreover, in today's modern era, it's crucial to approach sensitive topics with more empathy and understanding. Just imagine the emotional hurt caused by asking a woman when she'll settle down while she patiently waits for her boyfriend to propose. Such remarks can inflict significant pain.

Let's strive to be more sensitive and considerate toward others, allowing them to follow their own paths and find happiness in their own time.

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