Secrets to a Happy Marriage | Marriage Tips from Those Who Have Been Married the Longest | Marriage Manners Monday

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:

1. Marry someone that you enjoy talking to, and listening to.
2. Choose the one you love, then love the one you choose.
3. Remember that marriage is sometimes a bed of roses, and sometimes, you can run into thorns.
4. Never assume.
5. Love is like childhood; you need to learn to share.
6. Be fair, whether it’s splitting the housework or spending your money.
7. Marriage is not 50/50; it’s two people giving 100/100 all the time.
8. Love isn’t always a feeling; it’s also a decision.
9. It’s ok to argue, but never use curse words to express your anger.
10. Before starting an argument, consider if it’s really worth it.
11. There is more than one way to do anything.
12. Compliment more than you criticise.
13. Never EVER mention the D word.
14. Never go to bed angry.
15. Do you want to be right, or do you want to be married?
16. Fight naked
17. Learn to agree to disagree.
18. Never use the words “Always” and “Never” in a fight.
19. People do fight. It’s human nature. It’s what you do about it that matters.
20. Respect each other’s privacy.
21. Never air your dirty laundry as a couple in public.
22. Keep the in-laws out of your marriage.
23. Be each other’s champion; no matter what, take your partner’s side first.
24. Be quick to say “I’m sorry”.
25. Play nice, play often, love much.
26. Hug and kiss every day.
27. Hold hands.
28. Never keep secrets from each other.
29. Communication is the key.
30. Don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself.
31. Always respect each other.
32. Surprise each other now and again.
33. It’s the little things that matter the most.
34. Always make time for the two of you.
35. Have date nights regularly.
36. For three times you vent to your friends about your partner, tell three positive stories.
37. The best gift you can give your children is to love their mom or dad.
38. Never pass up on an opportunity to say “I love you”.
39. Never compare your marriage to others; you are both on your own path.
40. Hang in there; it’s definitely worth it!