Hi Chris,
My friend’s Insta posts make marriage look effortless, but I’m sure it isn’t really! I’m getting married soon, so what do I need to know to make sure my husband and I get on well?
Marriage lessons
Chris says,
Hi, marriage lessons!
Marriage is never effortless, despite all those fairy tale posts! So, there are definitely things every couple needs to know as they start their lives together.
Like, there’ll be good times and bad times. So, when you’re struggling through a rough patch, don’t despair. Practice your coping skills on every small difficulty and then you’ll be well prepared when something really bad happens.
There’ll be times when you think the worst of each other. Thoughts like that are normal, so don’t overthink them. Focus on the things about your marriage that you love and you’ll soon start feeling positive again.
Resist the temptation to dump every worry on your husband, because constant negativity is draining. Instead, learn to be optimistic and to see the positive side of life.
You’ll mess up. Both of you. So, learn to forgive. Accept that there’ll be trouble and be prepared to deal with it.
You’re still two individuals, so you’ll probably have different hobbies, interests and friends. Go on growing as individuals and make time for yourselves.
Never assume you know what your husband’s thinking; just ask. And if he’s doing something wrong, tell him.
Be yourself when you’re together. And love him for who he is. No one’s perfect.
Recognise what you do for each other. You’ll be surprised how much you’ll both appreciate compliments, smiles and words like ‘I love you,’ ‘Sorry’ and ‘Thank you.’
Learn to support each other. Constantly encourage one another, create goals together and be there for each other even in the worst situations.
Learn to live happily within your means, because money problems are a sure way to spoil a relationship.
And put your marriage first, ahead of your children, parents, friends or career. 90 per cent of our happiness comes from our relationship with our spouse, so make sure you give it first priority.
All the best,
Chris
