Teniola Aladese Urges Women to Know Themselves Before Marriage
Popular Nigerian actress Teniola Aladese has shared a thoughtful perspective on marriage, advising women not to rush into it without first taking time to truly understand themselves.
According to the actress, many women move directly from their parents’ homes into marriage without ever experiencing independence. She noted that this often leaves them unprepared for the realities of married life.
Teniola explained that without living alone or making independent life choices, many women do not fully know what they like, what they can tolerate, or the kind of character traits they genuinely desire in a life partner. This, she said, becomes a major problem when marriage begins to reveal habits and behaviors they never anticipated.
She added that the lack of self-awareness often leads to frustration and disappointment, as some women suddenly realize they are in situations they were never emotionally or mentally prepared for.
Opinion: Self-Discovery Is Not Delay, It’s Preparation
Teniola Aladese’s message strikes a deep chord in today’s society, where marriage is often seen as a race rather than a journey. Her words highlight an uncomfortable truth: many marital struggles begin long before the wedding day.
Living alone is not about rebellion or rejecting family values—it is about self-discovery. Independence helps people understand their boundaries, emotional needs, and deal-breakers. When this clarity is missing, marriage can feel like a shock rather than a partnership.
Her advice does not discourage marriage; instead, it redefines preparation. Knowing yourself first can prevent years of silent suffering, resentment, or the painful realization of “this is not what I signed up for.”
In a culture where women are often pressured to settle quickly, Teniola’s perspective is a refreshing reminder that taking time to grow into yourself is not selfish—it is wise. Marriage works best when two whole, self-aware individuals choose each other, not when one is still discovering who they are after saying “I do.”
