What does having a fear of commitment really mean? Actually, it means basically what it says. For SOME reason you, or someone you are involved with, isn't ready to take this relationship (or any relationship) to next step.

So how do we know if we or our (hoped for) partner are truly afraid of commitment? How do we know that it's not something else? Is there any real difference between these two anyway?

Do these excuses sound familiar? "I'm just under a lot of stress right now." "It's not you, it's me." "I can't focus on a relationship right now because of my overloaded schedule."

Very often, we want to accept these reasons because we fear real truth. Other times, we are just very confused by our feelings and often mixed messages from other person.

So, how do we evaluate our ability to make a long-term commitment? How do we know if he/she is really ready or willing?

There are only two real issues here to examine.

The first issue involves looking at a true fear of commitment itself. If this is problem it's important for person with this fear to ask themselves a few key questions.

Are you concerned about idea of forever? Do you fear you could make a mistake in who you choose? Do you fear a loss of your freedom/autonomy? Are you afraid of a bad marriage- like your parents for instance Do you fear you would be a bad mate?