This archive report was first published on 30 June 2019.
Marriage can be challenging, but many couples are happy together. The key to a successful union lies in the everyday actions of kindness and respect.
Start by being polite and considerate towards each other. This includes being kind and thoughtful not just towards your partner, but also towards others.
Revisit your priorities and make sure you're not dropping social politeness within your relationship. Add to your kindness those things you can only do within a marriage, such as a kiss before work or a cuddle at night.
Meet each other's needs, show gratitude and appreciation, and be concerned when your spouse seems down. Successful couples communicate their feelings respectfully and clearly, and they fight – but they do so in a healthy way.
They understand each other, own up to mistakes, and let go of grudges quickly. Trust is also essential in a successful marriage, with no hidden investments or online relationships.
Couples who are in love need time to pursue their own friendships and interests, but they also need to set aside time to be alone together. By sharing their dreams and working towards turning them into reality, couples can build a successful future together.
