Science Reveals: Marry Right for Success—But One Major Exception Exists

The Impact of Marriage on Career, Wealth, and Health

Research has shown that the person you choose to marry can significantly influence your career, wealth, and health. However, it’s not just about the person you marry — it also matters who they marry. This dynamic plays a crucial role in shaping various aspects of your life.

Financial Benefits of Marriage

One of the most compelling reasons to get married is the potential for increased financial stability. A study published in the Journal of Sociology found that the net worth of a married individual grows approximately 75 percent more during their thirties, forties, and fifties compared to an unmarried individual. This growth occurs per person in the relationship, not per couple.

Another study from Washington University in St. Louis revealed that people with prudent and reliable partners tend to perform better at work, earning more promotions, making more money, and feeling more satisfied with their jobs. Researchers refer to this as “partner conscientiousness,” which predicts future job satisfaction, income, and likelihood of promotion. Conscientious partners often take on more household tasks, exhibit pragmatic behaviors, and promote a more satisfying home life, allowing their spouses to focus more on their careers.

As one researcher noted, "These results demonstrate that the dispositional characteristics of the person one marries influence important aspects of one’s professional life." In simpler terms, a good partner sets a good example and helps create an environment where you can be your best self.

Additional data supports these findings. A 2021 Census Bureau report showed that married adults tend to earn substantially more than unmarried adults and have three times the net worth. A 2021 Bureau of Labor Statistics survey found that married couples spend about $10,000 less per person than unmarried individuals. Making more and spending less is a great formula for increasing net worth.

Health Implications of Marriage

While marriage offers many benefits, it also comes with challenges when it comes to health. A study published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health found that people in romantic relationships tend to exercise less than single individuals, especially when it comes to moderate to vigorous physical activity like running or lifting weights. This is because couples often engage in shared activities such as eating meals together or watching TV, which can reduce the likelihood of going to the gym.

Researchers noted that when partners are present, their exercise levels are substantially lower compared to when they are absent. When partners spend leisure time apart, their exercise levels are higher than those of individuals without a partner. The study suggests that it's not just the existence of a relationship but the current co-presence with a partner that affects physical activity behavior.

Another study published in Health Psychology found that after four years in a stable relationship, people tend to gain significantly more weight than they would from aging alone. A Social Science & Medicine study found that long-term relationships are associated with weight gain and reduced exercise. When a relationship ends, people tend to lose weight and exercise more.

The researchers speculate that feeling secure in a relationship may cause people to focus less on their appearance and, therefore, less on healthy behaviors like exercise and diet. This highlights the importance of maintaining healthy habits even within a committed relationship.

Choosing the Right Partner

Clearly, choosing the right person to marry is one of the most important decisions you’ll make regarding your happiness, career, and financial success. However, it's equally important to choose to be the kind of partner that your spouse deserves.

For instance, marrying someone who is conscientious and prudent can lead to a more rewarding career and healthier lifestyle. But it’s not enough to expect your partner to change their habits. Instead, consider what you can do to support their goals.

In practical terms, you might take on managing the finances, handling more household chores, or ensuring that daily tasks are completed efficiently. These actions can help maintain a balanced and successful relationship.

When it comes to health and fitness, you can prioritize exercise and better eating habits. You might take on grocery shopping, cook meals, or prepare healthy lunches for your partner. By being the "conscientious" one, you set a positive example and encourage a healthier lifestyle for both of you.

Leading by Example

Ultimately, the key to a successful marriage lies in being supportive, encouraging, and leading by example. While marrying the right person can provide numerous benefits, what you do for your partner and how that impacts your relationship is even more crucial.

The person you choose to marry matters, but what you do for your partner and how that strengthens your relationship matters most. By focusing on mutual support and shared goals, you can build a stronger, more fulfilling partnership that benefits both of you in every aspect of life.