I was reading a great post at SimpletoRemember.com called 20 Key Ideas for a Happy Marriage.
The article is full of great ideas, you should take a minute to read it – Here are 2 of my favorites:
6. Before speaking, clarify the outcome you want. The meaning of your communication is the response you actually get. If the first thing you say is not achieving your goal, change your approach. Remember that mutual respect and happiness is your real goal. Do not needlessly argue. Silence is often the wisest choice. Constantly be mutually respectful.
11. Give up unrealistic expectations. Do not expect your spouse to be perfect and do not make comparisons.
As I began thinking, I wanted to add another 2 Keys to unlock a better marriage:
1. Take on problems together as a team. Life is more difficult when you are at odds with your spouse. When you approach difficulties from the same direction, you can move together to solve issues much easier.
2. Talk, Plan, Dream and Pray about your future together. Having a long term vision for where you want to be, who you want to be and how you want to get there give you goals to shoot for in your marriage.
What are your Keys for a Happy Marriage? We’d love to hear them in the comments below!
Stu & Lisa have been married 8 years (together 11) and have a heart to encourage couples in their marriages. They live in Middle Tennessee, have an awesome 6 year old, and a mutt named 'Boo'.
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taking on problems together as a team reminded me of a verse I came accross this past week and shared with my wife…..
Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken. – Ecc. 4:9-12
-To him be the glory!!!!!!!
Put stuff away where your wife tells you it goes.
Actually, your keys are great. Thanks, Stu.
J covered one of the keys that I need to keep in mind more consciously.
I think that your second key is really important, Stu. You both need to be headed to the same place so that you arrive together.
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