How to Be Best Friends With Your Husband or Wife

A wedding is only the first step in creating a successful marriage.

Marriage, for many, is the official first step in building a long-term union between two individuals who want to create a life together. Committed couples plan and prepare seemingly endlessly for the wedding. However, once married, a couple may discover that the flow of the relationship changes. Friendship is the foundation of a good relationship, and maintaining that initial "spark" takes constant work. There are key steps that can help you build and maintain a friendship with your spouse.

Instructions

Methods

1. Engage in similar activities. Each member of a couple brings individual interests to a relationship, but it is important to share your spouse's interests as well. If sharing the activity is impossible, at least be supportive. Some couples find they grow closer through shared activities, while others may thrive on their individuality. However, sports and hobbies that promote interaction can naturally enhance a relationship through shared experience.

2. Continue to date your spouse. When a relationship first begins, a couple may go out frequently in an effort to bond and discover shared interests. However, dating can come to a halt once the couple has married. Day-to-day obligations can overwhelm a couple and cause marriage to become mundane. Including "date-nights" can help prolong the courtship experience, helping keep spouses interested and in touch with one another.

3. Communicate regularly with your spouse, and keep it interesting. Deep friendship thrives on ongoing shared memories and interactions. Make certain to speak often -- even daily -- about things that interest you both; the mundane and routine can be friendship-killers. Make conversations with your spouse as entertaining as possible.

4. Seek outside assistance, if necessary. Marriage is not an easy undertaking, and if your friendship and affection begin to wane, professional counseling may help you get back on track. A counselor can offer an objective third-party perspective. Getting counseling in a neutral, non-threatening environment can help struggling couples.

References

• Marriage
• The 7 Issues You Must Discuss Before Marriage
• Marriage counseling

Resources

• Marriage Counseling