When you are dating your spouse to be and planning the beautiful wedding It is almost hard to believe that anything can go wrong with the marriage. You believe that it will be happily ever after. He is handsome, Caring, Supportive, generous, he laughs at your jokes and of course he is a spiritual Man who loves Jesus. Nothing can go wrong. But sharing your life with another person can be a challenge, especially if you do not have a lot of experience with relationships. To have a successful marriage involves more than just love. Marriages take work, commitment, and love, mutual and so much more to have a happy and successful marriage.
In order to have a marriage based on that is fulfilling and happy both spouses must do their part. Below are some important keys to work on each day to make your marriage successful.
Honest Communication
Talking with your spouse is one of the best ways to keep your marriage healthy and successful. Beyond just talking you need to express your feelings in an honest and respectful manner. Being a good listener is certainly a major part of good and effective communication. Take the time to understand what it is your spouse wants and needs from you. Keep the lines of communication open by talking often and talk often.
Express Gratitude
Show gratitude to your spouse as often as you can. There is a tendency to take each other for granted in marriage so make sure when your partner cooks dinner, helps the kids with their homework, or does the house chores. Take a few minutes to tell each other at least one thing you appreciated that day.
Romance is important
The longer you stay married with work and family responsibilities, it can be easy to lose the romance factor. Be intentional about planning dates and getaways, it does not have to be expensive a date can be a stroll on the beach or a long drive chatting. Just make sure these 2 rules are adhered to: If you have children, then no children or any other person is allowed on the date and enjoy each other’s company.
Understand that it's okay to have disagreements
You will not agree on everything, but it is important to be fair and respectful during disagreements. There is indeed such a thing as fighting fair. Listen to your spouse's point of view. Try not to get angry and if you see yourself getting frustrated then ask your spouse for some time, walk away and calm down if you need to, then discuss the problem again when you are both in a better frame of mind. Learn the art of compromise and overlooking some things. Not everything needs to be discussed.
Learn to forgive
Everyone makes mistakes. We need to understand that no one is perfect, especially your spouse. They will say things that are hurtful and might behave in ways that may make you angry. It is important to note that just because they do those things does not make them bad. But it is important to deal with your feelings, let them go, and move on. Do not keep bringing up the past. If you are having a hard time forgiving, then you might need to talk to a Coach or therapist.
Pray
The power of prayer cannot be overemphasized in marriage. When you pray for your spouse and the marriage you will receive the help you need to make the marriage work. Inviting God into your home signifies that you understand that a happy home is not something you can make happen on your own. You need God to make this a reality. Praying together also forges closeness and intimacy.
Marriage over time may change but the fundamental tools that enhance a happy home remain the same. Be intentional about working on your marriage and see the changes that will occur as you invest the time and effort to see it through.
Great points. Thank you for sharing!