People always say marriage is the ultimate goal for love and happiness. Since childhood, we’re told that finding “the one” and settling down is just how life works. But what if that’s not true? What if the struggles so many couples face are not a sign of failure but rather proof that we are forcing ourselves into an institution that goes against human nature?
"Happily Ever After"
Movies and fairy tales make marriage seem like the perfect ending to every love story. Society makes us believe that after saying “I do,” everything will magically work out. But real life is different. Divorce rates are high, many people cheat, and a lot of couples stay together even when they are not happy. Maybe it’s because humans are not built for marriage the way we think.
What Science Says About Humans and Commitment
Unlike some animals that mate for life, humans are naturally drawn to variety. Over time, attraction fades, and people crave something new. Our biology suggests that forcing lifelong commitment might not be natural for us. The idea of staying with one person forever sounds nice, but it doesn’t match how humans actually behave if we are being honest.
Marriage Is a Social Rule, Not a Natural One
From what I understand, marriage was not always about love. In the past, people got married for money, land, and family connections. Even today, in many cultures, marriage is more about financial security and social status than happiness. The idea of marrying purely for love is a relatively modern concept, not a fact of life.
The Pressure to Get Married
People who stay single mostly feel judged. Family members ask, “When are you getting married?” as if being single means something is wrong with you. This pressure makes many people rush into marriage before they are ready, causing unhappy relationships and breakups.
Why Society Pretends Marriage Works for Everyone
If marriage has so many problems, why does the world keep pushing it? The answer is tradition and control. Marriage helps keep society running the way it always has. Governments use it for tax laws, religious institutions use it to maintain influence, and businesses capitalize on the billion dollar wedding industry. Admitting that marriage is not natural would mean questioning systems that have been in place for centuries.
What’s the Alternative?
This doesn’t mean love and commitment don’t matter. Relationships, friendships, and deep connections are still important. But instead of following outdated rules, people should create relationships that work for them. This could mean open relationships, living together without getting married, and free from unnecessary pressure. Instead of asking, “When are you getting married?” maybe the better question is, “Are you truly happy?”
The truth is, you don’t need marriage to be happy. True happiness comes from knowing yourself, making your own choices, and having relationships that feel right to you, not just ones that follow society’s rules.
