In a recent interview with Piers Morgan on CNN, George Clooney reconfirmed his well-known commitment to bachelorhood. Stating that he had already given marriage "a shot," he feels it ought to have "proven how good I was at it." Been there: done that, right George?
In stark contrast, it was pointed out that George's father Nick Clooney had "one of the great marriages" which has lasted 51 years.
So on one hand, there's a father all about marriage, and on the other, a son who believes it's not for him. What's the great thing about both of these men's view on marriage? They're upfront about what they want out of life. In order to be happy and fulfilled in all the pursuits you choose, it's a must to be open and honest with others and yourself about the kind of commitments you want and need going forward.
In order to help you think it through, take a look at the list below of what marriage and singlehood have to offer and see which side has more pros or more cons for you.
Singlehood Means…
Variety -- For many, one of the biggest pros of staying single is having the option to be with more than one person the rest of your life. It's like opting for the tasting menu instead of the one favorite dish you want to have again and again. For some, variety is the only option: "If variety is the spice of life, marriage is the big can of leftover Spam," said Johnny Carson.
Independence -- If you're the type who doesn't like to account to anybody, is free-spirited, and likes lots of alone time, then marriage may not be for you. Also ask yourself if you are more likely to need and be needed or prefer to rely on yourself.
Rollercoaster ride -- When you are single there are lots of high highs and low lows. There is the anticipation when you meet someone, the lust you feel at the beginning of a great relationship, and the sense of hope you have for new relationships, but then there are the lows of rejection, disappointments, and breakups.
Single parenthood -- Some single parents have a tough time financially, as well as emotionally. There's no partner with whom to share the joys, difficulties, and financial responsibilities of parenthood. However, some single parents, especially if they are financially stable, love being the sole parent in charge and having the special bond that comes with it.
Marriage means…
Intimacy -- When people opt for marriage, they are saying that there is something more intimate and fulfilling in going though life deeply involved with one person. For people who like marriage, the intimacy you get from being with one person can be more sexy and sensual than being with many partners.
Teamwork -- Marriage is for team players. It's going though life as a partnership, which requires compromise, but also means someone's always got your back.
Smooth ride -- If you have a marriage that's on track, it tends to be a smoother ride than the ups and downs of singlehood. For those who like excitement, drama, anticipation, and the wow factor of shiny, new relationships, then marriage may not be for you. "Sometimes I bust out and do things so permanent. Like tattoos and marriage," said Drew Barrymore.
Shared parenthood -- When you're married, there's someone to get the crying baby at 5:00 a.m. in the morning when you just can't manage to crawl out of bed. In good marriages, there's shared responsibility for raising the kids. However, keep in mind that a major cause of dissension and even divorce is arguing over how to raise the kids.
Whatever you decide, leave room to reevaluate your decision from time to time, which will minimize the likelihood of regrets.