Some men face the prospect of proposing with sheer terror, while others feel compelled to pop the question on the second date. Regardless of where your personality falls, here are eight ways to be sure you're ready for marriage.

You Hit a Landmark

If you've just made a big professional advance (like a raise or a promotion), it may be the perfect time to take the next big step in your personal life too.

You've Discussed Your Future

Have you talked about your plans for going on vacation together this summer, and your plans together 10 years from now? If you and your girlfriend speak naturally and sincerely about your future together that sort of confidence bodes well for your relationship.

She's Aware of Your Goals

Everyone has ambitions but make sure your aspirations don't conflict with those of your girlfriend.

You're Open About Money

Make no mistake about it - despite your undying love and devotion - money matters. You don’t need to know where every penny goes, but you should at least be familiar with each others’ financial situations. Money can be an immediate source of conflict in a marriage.

Do Your Friends Like Her

A relationship becomes tough when your friends don't want anything to do with your girlfriend. You don’t want to spend your life choosing between your friends and your soon-to-be-wife.

Make Sure She'll Say Yes

This may seem obvious, but if you feel the chance of her accepting your proposal is iffy, it's probably not the right time to ask. Ask her to marry you when you know you're both on the same page about spending your lives together.

You Consider Her Family Your Own

You've met her parents and she's met yours. You've attended holidays, birthdays, barbecues, and even the occasional tragedy together with her family. As they have embraced you as someone important in your girlfriend's life, you also have come to care for them. When you get this intertwined with her, there's only one place left to go.

She's Dropping Hints...and That's Okay

Maybe she's mentioned how she's really into cushion-cut diamonds. Or that she'd love to honeymoon in Venice. Or perhaps her hints are a little less subtle. Her mind is on marriage, and she's feeling out whether you're ready. If your instinct is to change the subject, cower in a corner, or shrug off the idea of an engagement entirely, you're likely not in a position to propose. But if the idea of marrying your girlfriend excites you, the only thing left is to buy a ring and start brainstorming ways to propose.