sosimpole said:
Do you guys think the indirect approach is the way to go? Dropping hints like "I would never marry a lush." Or should I sit her down and have a talk?
Communication is VERY important. After all, people don't read minds. And women would take advantage of men IF we allow it. Another thing, she is very young and she can actually be "shaped" if done correctly (especially if she is more into you that you are into her - but that's another topic).
Personally, I tend to send "hints" by talking about "values". No preaching...but talking. Many times I use the News as a way to provide what I feel is wrong with society, etc. (e.g. Paul McCarthy from the Beatles losing 50% of his networth in the divorce and how AFC he was). But my situation is different, because I am not with a woman in her 20s.
Once again, it is NOT preaching, but more of adding a bit here and a bit there. And of course, NEVER overdoing it (you don't want to be considered a pesimist or whiner).
If she starts behaving a certain way...I simply talk to her. I don't and won't tell her what to do. I would simply say that certain things make me uncomfortable or that I don't like them. However, NEVER tell her what to do (unless it deals with your house, children, YOUR vehicle, YOUR finances). Simply tell her what you like or dislike and try to reach a compromise...but under the understanding that you cannot compromise your values nor your self-respect.
And also make her understand that you have some deal breakers. However, if you have a deal breaker and you share it with her, you better be SURE it is a REAL deal breaker (e.g. you would walk away NO SECOND CHANCES if she does it). Because if you share a deal breaker with her and she still does it and you end up giving her a second chance...she will NEVER respect you as a man.
And avoid ultimatums.