An alternative to the five stages of enlightenment - The five stages of marriage
- The stage of fantasy (0 - 5 years)
There is the dream that one's partner will fulfill all one's wishes. This is the "immature" stage.
- The stage of dissatisfaction (5 - 10 years)
There is the realization that one's partner is not going to change into the perfect partner. One's dream is not being supported by reality.
- The separative stage (10 - 15 years)
There are serious thoughts about separation while there is still time. One feels that one will have to fulfill one's dreams elsewhere.
- The stage of preparation (15 - 20 years)
There is a gradual acceptance of the other's faults as one is ground into conformity. One realizes that one has to change one's own values if one is to live harmoniously with others. Maturity is near.
- The stage of acceptance (20 years and more)
This is the "mature" stage, when there is an acceptance of the other's faults. One succumbs once and for all to contentedness with mediocrity.