Marriage has evolved in some pretty major ways over the years, and millennials have their own take on how to make it work.
While older generations may have followed certain traditional roles or behaviours, millennials are bringing their own set of values to their relationships. From rejecting outdated gender roles to embracing equality and open communication, they’re steering their marriages in a more modern direction. Because of that, they’ve put their foot down and refuse to do these things anymore.
1. Accept rigid gender roles
Gone are the days when one partner, typically the woman, was expected to do all the household chores while the other, usually the man, focused on work. Millennials reject these traditional roles, instead opting for a more balanced approach to shared responsibilities. Whether it’s splitting household tasks equally or both partners contributing to financial decisions, millennials believe in partnership and equality over outdated gender expectations.
2. Stay in a toxic relationship for the sake of tradition
Millennials value mental and emotional well-being over the idea of “staying together for the kids” or “because that’s what you do.” If a relationship isn’t working, they’re more likely to ask for help or end things rather than stay in a toxic or unhappy marriage. They recognise that happiness and personal growth are essential, even if it means stepping away from a relationship.
3. Skirt around tough or awkward conversations
Communication is key for millennials, who are more likely to talk openly about their feelings, frustrations, and needs. Instead of bottling things up or letting resentment fester, millennials understand the importance of addressing issues head-on. They believe that regular check-ins and honest conversations strengthen the relationship and prevent problems from snowballing.
4. Accept financial inequality
Millennials are rejecting the idea of one partner being the primary breadwinner or controlling all financial decisions. In modern marriages, both partners contribute to the household finances, whether they’re working full-time, part-time, or managing household duties. Financial equality is important, and couples are making decisions together, rather than relying on traditional gender expectations.
5. Marry without questioning traditional norms
Rather than feeling pressured to marry by a certain age or because it’s “what you’re supposed to do,” millennials are more likely to question the institution of marriage itself. They’re opting for relationships that feel right for them, whether that means waiting longer to tie the knot, skipping a formal wedding, or deciding that marriage isn’t for them at all. The idea of “following the rules” is being replaced with what works for the individual couple.
6. Allow one partner to sacrifice their career for the other
Source: Unsplash Instead of the traditional arrangement where one partner’s career takes a bback seatfor the other, millennials prioritise career growth for both partners. They recognise the importance of supporting each other’s professional ambitions, and often, they work together to find a balance that allows both to thrive in their careers while maintaining their relationship.
7. Settle for complacency
Source: Unsplash Millennials refuse to settle for a stagnant or complacent relationship. They believe in growth—both individually and as a couple—and actively work to maintain the excitement and connection in their marriages. Whether it’s planning regular date nights, going to therapy when they need it, or setting new goals together, millennials aren’t afraid to put in the effort to keep the spark alive.
8. Tolerate emotional neglect
Emotional neglect has no place in millennial marriages. Millennials prioritise emotional connection and self-care, both as individuals and as a couple. They understand that emotional intimacy is just as important as physical attraction, and they actively nurture their relationship by being present, supportive, and affectionate.
9. Follow traditional wedding customs
Millennials are moving away from traditional wedding expectations, favouring personal, unique celebrations that feel authentic to them. From ditching the white dress and fancy venues to skipping certain customs like the father-daughter dance, millennials are reimagining what marriage and weddings mean to them, embracing creativity and individuality.
10. Assume one person has to do everything
Whether it’s parenting, cleaning, or managing the home, millennials reject the notion that one person should carry the entire load. They embrace a more collaborative approach, sharing responsibilities and supporting each other through the challenges of marriage and family life. This shift towards teamwork is key to making modern relationships work.
11. Let work define the relationship
Millennials value work-life balance, and they don’t let their jobs take precedence over their marriage. They know that time spent together is crucial to nurturing the relationship, and they’re more likely to set boundaries around work hours to ensure that their personal life and marriage come first.
12. Accept one partner’s opinion as law
In millennial marriages, both partners have equal say in important decisions, whether it’s about finances, children, or lifestyle choices. Millennials value mutual respect and collaboration, and they believe that both voices should be heard and considered in the decision-making process. After all, equality strengthens the partnership and creates a sense of shared ownership over the relationship.
13. Expect perfection
Millennials understand that no relationship is perfect. They’ve moved away from the fairy tale narrative and embrace the idea that marriage is about working through challenges together, growing as a couple, and accepting each other’s flaws. They aren’t looking for a flawless partner or relationship, but for someone who is committed to building something real and lasting.
