26 Perks of Being in a Serious Relationship in Your 20s

Young, independent, and . . . committed? Yep, you heard that right. This is a declaration for anyone who is in a long-term relationship in their 20s and has felt pressure to "see what else is out there." Some people think that being in a relationship in your 20s makes no sense at all. They assume you're wasting away your youth; however, I couldn't disagree more.

I've been with my boyfriend for almost three years. Since we've been together, I have studied abroad, have lived alone, and still go out and have fun with my girlfriends. As a couple, we've traveled around Southeast Asia, gone to music festivals, and lived life like every other 20-something — we just happen to be in a relationship. I have a sense of stability that allows me to focus on my career rather than wasting energy worrying about if that guy will text me back or if I'll ever fall in love.

Some of the most self-sufficient and motivated women I know happen to be in committed relationships as well. I asked them to share all the reasons they love having a significant other and compiled a list of perks.

01
Best of Both Worlds
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Best of Both Worlds

You can still experience the fun that a single person has (like studying abroad and going out with friends) while getting the benefits of a long-term significant other.

02
It Takes a Weight Off Your Shoulders
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It Takes a Weight Off Your Shoulders

You've already found what most people spend their whole lives searching for — someone who truly understands you.

03
You Get to Change for the Better, Together
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You Get to Change for the Better, Together

You have someone who knows and loves you during a time when you're constantly learning and growing.

04
Relationship Life > Fling Life
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Relationship Life > Fling Life

The laughter is deeper, the sex is better, and the affection is stronger in a committed relationship compared to a casual fling.

05
It's Like Having a Personal Cheerleader 24/7
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It's Like Having a Personal Cheerleader 24/7

You're constantly reassured of your talents and aspirations.

06
Your Family Won't Constantly Bug You to See If You're Dating
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Your Family Won't Constantly Bug You to See If You're Dating

They already know and love your partner.

07
Wisdom Beyond Your Years
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Wisdom Beyond Your Years

From an early age (relatively speaking), you learn about what's really important to you in a partner and what it takes to work toward a successful relationship.

08
They Catch You When You Fall
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They Catch You When You Fall

Being able to fully trust someone is so important when trying to figure out your life.

09
Loneliness Is a Thing of The Past
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Loneliness Is a Thing of The Past

At the end of the day, there will always be someone waiting for you.

10
You Can Forget About Modern Dating Woes
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You Can Forget About Modern Dating Woes

While friends are telling you about all the immature guys they meet on Tinder or at bars, you don't have to deal with jerks on a weekly basis.

11
Monogamy Equals Reduced Risk of STDs
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Monogamy Equals Reduced Risk of STDs

Being with only each other is a special (and safe) thing.

12
Their Presence Is Comforting
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Their Presence Is Comforting

You have someone who reminds you every day how much they love every part of you.

13
You're in This Together
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You're in This Together

You teach each other new things, adventure together, and tackle challenges together.

15
They Make You Feel Safe
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They Make You Feel Safe

It's nice to know someone is always looking out for you, there to drunkenly dance with you, and make sure you get home safely.

16
All Wrapped Into One
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All Wrapped Into One

You have a confidante, best friend, and lover, all wrapped into one.

17
You Don't Have to Stress About a Plus-One
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You Don't Have to Stress About a Plus-One

You have someone to take to your awkward family gatherings.

18
A Constant Confidence Boost
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A Constant Confidence Boost

Even when you're just in sweats and a t-shirt, they make you feel beautiful.

19
You Don't Have to Juggle Dating and Your Career
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You Don't Have to Juggle Dating and Your Career

You have more time to focus on your professional goals and ambitions.

20
Marriage Training Wheels
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Marriage Training Wheels

Whether you marry or not, you've had way more practice being in a serious relationship than someone who only dated around until their late 20s.

21
Boring Errands Are a Thing of the Past
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Boring Errands Are a Thing of the Past

Doing the most mundane things like going grocery shopping or heating up leftovers becomes instantly more fun with a partner by your side.

22
Someone to Lean On
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Someone to Lean On

You have a support system during those years after college when close friends might be superbusy or spread all across the country.

23
You Can Stay in Without Feeling the Pressure to Go Out
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You Can Stay in Without Feeling the Pressure to Go Out

But on the nights you do go out, you don't have to fake nice to the drunken people at the bar because your person is there. It's a win-win situation!

24
A Motivation Buddy
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A Motivation Buddy

You help recognize each other's flaws and push each another to become a better person.

25
You Know You're Blessed
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You Know You're Blessed

When your single friends complain that they can't find a normal, nice partner and wish they had someone like your SO, you feel lucky to have found someone so wonderful.

26
They Love You For Who You Are
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They Love You For Who You Are

You can be yourself at all times, to be good and to be not so good, and to have someone every step of the way encourage you, laugh with you, reassure you, challenge you — in a word, love you.