5 Ways to a Have a Happier Marriage
Many married couples have been there before - feeling like they used to be happier once upon a time. What they forget is being in a marriage is like taking care of a car. It needs regular maintenance and attention to run properly and prevent breakdowns. By implementing the five simple ideas below, you and your partner can begin maintaining your marriage today and be on the road to a happier life together.
Communicate Your Needs
One of the best ways to ensure having a happier marriage is talking through what your needs are with your partner. Don't assume the other person will know what you want - it is unlikely he or she is a mind-reader, no matter how long you have been together. When things go unsaid, miscommunication occurs and conflict can arise.
Take Responsibility
If you and your partner find yourself in conflict, try to avoid blaming the other person or being defensive. Remember, it takes two to tango, so each of you probably has some ownership to admit. Take responsibility by verbalizing how you contributed to the disagreement and remembering to apologize for how this might have hurt your partner. Genuinely saying "I'm sorry" are two of the the most powerful and healing words to say to another person.
Schedule Time
It is common for many couples to go about their days as usual and lose track of time so that at the end of the day, they do not have time for each other. Make a plan together (and stick to it!) where you and your partner schedule time for each other regularly. This can be implementing regular date nights, daily check-ins, or even having sex.
Create Rituals
Have something to look forward to and make your marriage fun by creating rituals and celebrations that are special for each of you individually and as a couple. Whether it's having a certain meal for your anniversary, decorating together for a special holiday, or celebrating your partner's birthday, having rituals will go a long way to rejuvenating your marriage and the shaking up the daily patterns in which you typically find yourselves.
Don't Go Bankrupt!
Not only is this good advice financially, but each of us has a personal "love bank" we draw from that holds our affection, love, and caring for another person. If you are always withdrawing from your bank and never making any deposits, eventually, you will run out. Take the time to make deposits for your partner's bank by taking care of his or her needs and showing appreciation on a regular basis. You can also deposit into your own bank by making sure to take care of yourself.
