Marriage is often associated with affection, adoration, and starting a family, but there are non-romantic benefits of marriage. Here I’ll explore some of the advantages marriage can offer beyond the realm of romance.

One of the most significant benefits of marriage is shared finances. Combining incomes can lead to financial stability and make it easier to achieve financial goals, such as buying a house, saving for retirement, or investing in a business. Additionally, married couples may be eligible for certain tax benefits, such as joint filing and deductions.

Emotional support and companionship are benefits, which can be invaluable during stress or difficulty. Having a partner who knows us well and is committed to supporting us can help alleviate feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression. Marriage provides a safe space to express one’s emotions, which can help strengthen the bond between partners.

Studies have shown that married people tend to be healthier than their single counterparts. The reason could be due to the fact that married individuals are more likely to engage in healthy behaviors, such as exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding risky behaviors such as drug use or excessive drinking. Additionally, married couples tend to care for each other when one partner falls ill, which can lead to better health outcomes overall.

Marriage provides legal protections for both partners. For example, if one partner becomes incapacitated, the other partner may have the legal authority to make decisions about their care. Moreover, if one partner dies, the surviving partner may be entitled to certain benefits, such as Social Security survivor benefits or inheritance rights. In some cases, marriage can also protect assets from creditors or legal claims.

Shared responsibilities can help alleviate stress and make daily tasks more manageable are other marriage perks. For example, if one partner cooks dinner, the other can do the dishes. Similarly, if one partner worked late, the other will pick up the kids from school. Sharing responsibilities can help prevent one partner from feeling overwhelmed and can create a sense of teamwork between partners.

Marriage can provide social connections that are difficult to replicate in other relationships. Being married often involves becoming part of a larger social network, whether through shared friends or family members. This sizable network can provide a sense of belonging and support that can be particularly valuable during difficult times. Moreover, married couples may have access to social activities and events that they may not have had access to as singles.

Married individuals may have an advantage when it comes to career advancement. Studies have shown that married people earn more money than their single counterparts and are more likely to be promoted to higher-level positions. The higher chance of success could be due to a number of factors, such as increased stability and motivation, or simply the fact that married individuals may have more resources at their disposal. Shared childcare responsibilities and better money management are usually an advantage single people don’t have.

In closing, while romance may be the main reason people choose to get married, the non-romantic benefits of marriage are amazing. Marriage can provide security, stability, and support that is difficult to replicate in other relationships. “Tying the knot” is not just hugs and kisses. Luckily for those who choose to get married, the perks are more plentiful than popular opinion suggests.

Food for thought. You do the dishes!

-William “Drills” Bradford