Keys to a Healthy Marriage
Here are some things to keep in mind when entering into a marriage.
Relationships take work, and that is especially true in a marriage. When you have decided to spend the rest of your life with someone else, there are likely some sacrifices and compromises that need to be made. There are several keys that can help improve your relationship, and keep both you and your spouse happy. Here are some things to keep in mind when entering into a marriage.
Lay the Groundwork
It can be beneficial to have some conversations before your wedding day. Big decisions such as whether you will have children, and if both of you will work don't necessarily have to be finalized before marriage, but you should at least be on the same page about it. On the other hand, conversations on things like whether you should get a king vs California king sized bed can probably wait until after the wedding day. If you are already married, it might be helpful to sit down and discuss your goals in life, and what you would like to see for the future.
Communication
Communication is one of the biggest keys to just about any relationship, and marriage is no different. In fact, it is even more important in a marriage than it is in a friendship. You and your spouse should make sure to communicate with each other when you are feeling a conflict. Letting these issues fester without discussing them can cause them to build up and lead to a big fight later. Sharing your frustrations and concerns with your spouse can help lead to a healthy resolution. However, remember to do this in a loving way, and don't put your spouse on the defensive. Focus on how you feel, without making accusatory statements.
Don't Forget the Romance
After being married for a while, it can be hard to not get trapped in a rut. This typically happens when you're stuck in the mundane, daily routine, with no fun or romance. Change it up every once in a while with a spontaneous date night or mini vacation. Surprise your spouse with some flowers or their favorite treat. Leave notes for them to find during the day telling them what you love about them. These little things can help your spouse feel loved and keep the romance in your relationship.
Always Be Honest
Dishonesty can be dangerous in a marriage. You and your spouse need to be able to trust each other, and lying can break that trust. Even if it's over something small, it's a good idea to always stick to the truth, so that you don't get caught in a lie and get yourself in trouble. Honesty can help eliminate anxieties that you or your spouse are hiding something. If you can help it, don't do things you might feel like you have to lie about later, so you don't feel the temptation to start that cycle.
Don't Forget Who You Are
Just because you are married doesn't mean you and your spouse aren't still individual people. Try to get out with your friends every once in a while. Even something as simple as going out to dinner with a few of your best friends can be refreshing. Don't forget about your individual hobbies and interests, and let your spouse do the same. This can help prevent the feelings of resentment and losing your identity. In addition, hobbies and interests can be a great outlet for working out frustrations and stresses.
Marriage can be a wonderful thing, but both people need to be fully committed in order for it to work. Communication can help prevent fights down the road. Romantic gestures remind you and your spouse why you fell in love in the first place, and honesty prevents distrust from forming in the relationship. Finally, getting out by yourself every once in a while can help you keep your individual identity, which can get lost in a marriage. These keys can help you have a long lasting and healthy marriage.
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