Why the first week of my marriage was the most awkward for me!

The first week of my married life would always be the most memorable time of my life. Before you start picturing sweet in-laws, pampering husband, romantic dinners, dreamy honeymoon and amazing sex life, let me clarify, none of these made it memorable. It was the ‘awkwardness’ that I dealt with while adjusting to this new life, which was a learning experience for me. Plus, being an introvert made the matter a bit more challenging. Here’s my experience of all the embarrassing things that happened during the first week of my marriage.

You are already in a new home at a new location, and trying to adjust with your in-laws. This combined with the relatives who have not returned to their home yet can make any introvert bride’s life challenging. I felt like I was under constant supervision and social anxiety at times became overwhelming. There was always someone who was silently observing me and all I could do was to smile and pretend as if I had no idea!

Back at my home, I never thought twice before using the washroom, wearing weird clothes and lying on my living room’s couch for no reason. But from the very first day of my marriage, I always felt embarrassed thinking everybody would notice me whenever I headed to the washroom, came out in my nightwear, and was conscious the way I sat and chatted with relatives. It took a long time to get comfortable at this new home and stop being the centre of everyone’s attention.

Heading to stroll in the neighbourhood park or visiting a market was no less than a task. Every time I stepped outside, I needed to inform someone. Feeling hungry? You will feel awkward in heading to the kitchen to look for snacks. Cooked your first meal? The nervousness of how it might turn out will kill you. Want to change or suggest something in your sex life? You will think probably ten times about how your husband would react. The first few days of marriage only reminded me that my life has taken a major turn and I looked forward to the day when I won’t hesitate before doing anything!

Being an introvert, I always had this habit of retiring to my room after dinner and reading a book alone. But post marriage, I craved for that me-time. Yes, I looked forward to spending time with my partner but being surrounded by people almost round the clock only made me feel awkward.

Though my husband is an understanding and liberal person but it was an arranged marriage and was yet to develop a rapport with him where I could pinpoint his habits I found irritating. The first week of marriage was the introduction to his world! Initially, it was awkward to talk about our sexual preferences. In fact, it was even embarrassing to change clothes in the same room. There were days he went for a jog and did not bath after coming home. I dreaded touching him and politely asked him to take a bath! And there were days when I had to subtly remind him to stay by my side during family outings.

I was not only conscious of what I was wearing but was uncomfortable how some of the relatives scanned me from head to toe whenever I stepped out of my room. The major issue was washing my clothes, especially my innerwear, and feeling awkward thinking where to dry them!

I am still an introvert but eventually, things have fallen into place after three months of being married. It took adjustment and tons of patience from both the sides but today, we are finally developing a comfort level together. That awkwardness in doing anything and everything is slowly fading away, and now I am taking baby steps into my blissful, happy world.

(All images used here are representational)