After last week’s post, we couldn’t take our mind off the world’s longest marriage, so decided to whip up the top 40 secrets to a happy marriage.
Brought to you by none other than those who have been married for over 30 years, in particular order:
- Marry someone that you enjoy talking to, and listening to.
- Choose the one you love, then love the one you choose.
- Remember that marriage is sometimes a bed of roses, and sometimes, you can run into thorns.
- Never assume.
- Love is like childhood; you need to learn to share.
- Be fair, whether it’s splitting the housework or spending your money.
- Marriage is not 50/50; it’s two people giving 100/100 all the time.
- Love isn’t always a feeling; it’s also a decision.
- It’s ok to argue, but never use curse words to express your anger.
- Before starting an argument, consider if it’s really worth it.
- There is more than one way to do anything.
- Compliment more than you criticise.
- Never EVER mention the D word.
- Never go to bed angry.
- Do you want to be right, or do you want to be married?
- Fight naked
- Learn to agree to disagree.
- Never use the words “Always” and “Never” in a fight.
- People do fight. It’s human nature. It’s what you do about it that matters.
- Respect each other’s privacy.
- Never air your dirty laundry as a couple in public.
- Keep the in-laws out of your marriage.
- Be each other’s champion; no matter what, take your partner’s side first.
- Be quick to say “I’m sorry”.
- Play nice, play often, love much.
- Hug and kiss every day.
- Hold hands.
- Never keep secrets from each other.
- Communication is the key.
- Don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself.
- Always respect each other.
- Surprise each other now and again.
- It’s the little things that matter the most.
- Always make time for the two of you.
- Have date nights regularly.
- For three times you vent to your friends about your partner, tell three positive stories.
- The best gift you can give your children is to love their mom or dad.
- Never pass up on an opportunity to say “I love you”.
- Never compare your marriage to others; you are both on your own path.
- Hang in there; it’s definitely worth it!