Secrets to Staying Married
Marriage is a wonderful situation if you find the right person. However, divorce happens in many cases. In fact, according to a February 2011 article in "Real Truth" magazine, 41 percent to 50 percent of first marriages fail. With figures like that, a long-term marriage may seem impossible. Don't let that scare you. Make an effort in your marriage. Marriage does not have to end in divorce. Take measures to ensure you have a long-lasting and happy marriage.
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Show Respect
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You need to show your partner respect. Do not belittle him. Show him you believe in him. Do not put him down for his beliefs. He needs to feel comfortable around you and know that you respect him. Without respect, you don't have much of a relationship. Treat him the way you expect to be treated.
Find Common Interests
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You need to spend time together enjoying each other. Life is tough enough with work responsibilities, children and family issues. You need to have fun laughing and enjoying your partner's company. If you feel unhappy at home and never spend time together, you grow apart. A solid relationship needs to have common joys and interests. Make time to do interesting things together. Have a date night once a week and enjoy a new experience, such as dancing or walking under the moonlight.
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Compromise and Pick Your Battles
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It is not possible to agree on everything with your spouse, but you need to find ways to compromise. Don't argue about small issues. Agree that it's OK to disagree on small things. Compromise on others. Don't be so inflexible that you don't take your partner's feelings into account. Put yourself in her shoes and see her point of view.
Give Each Other Space
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You cannot expect your partner to fulfill your every need. You must realize that you love your partner, but occasional time apart is OK. Spend time with friends. Go out to coffee or dinner once in awhile. You also need space at home. It is healthy. According to "Psychology Today," being alone "frees the spirit and cleanses the soul." It gives you a chance to reflect on things in your life.
Show Love
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You must make an effort to show your partner you love him. Words are one way to show love. Say "I love you" each day. Also, show your love with a little affection. Give your partner a hug for no reason. He will appreciate your caring. Send flowers or just send an e-card stating you are thinking of him. Everyone needs to feel loved and wanted.
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References
- "Woman's Day"; The Secrets to Staying Married; AnneMarie Conte; December 2009
- "The Real Truth"; Is Marriage Outdated; Jacob Toews; February 22, 2011
- "Psychology Today"; Do You Need Time Alone to Have a Great Marriage; Charles Schmitz, Ph.D., et al.; February 3, 2010
- "Psychology Today"; How to Bullet-Proof Your Marriage; Charles Schmitz, Ph.D., et al; February 21, 2011
- Photo Credit Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images
