Finding yourself in a new relationship, especially one that has the potential to turn into something truly special, can be exhilarating. In this position, it’s natural to want to dive in head-first—giving it your all in the hopes that, this time, it will stick. However, if you genuinely believe that you and your partner have what it takes to build a lasting, loving relationship, it’s wise to take a step back and set some ground rules before making any big moves.

Boundaries play a vital role in protecting both the relationship and your individual feelings, especially in a relationship with uncharted territories. Without them, potential miscommunications and unforeseen differences can escalate into significant issues, and blind you from the potential the relationship may have in the process. But, by setting them clearly early on, you create a strong baseline—one that can withstand the inevitable challenges every couple faces.

Here are three boundaries that are essential to put in place before you and your partner get serious.

Discussing the future in a relationship that’s still in its early stages can be intimidating. However, having this conversation sooner rather than later can mitigate major, preventable heartbreak down the line. While it may feel premature or daunting to bring up topics like long-term goals and life plans, addressing these issues early can ensure that both you and your partner are on the same page—specifically, the pages that will matter most to you both in the future.

Research confirms the importance of these kinds of conversations. A........

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