Keys to a successful marriage

“Success in marriage does not come merely through finding the right mate, but through being the right mate.” – Barnett R. Brickner

A lot would agree that having a nice home, car, or retirement account may appear nice to have, but unfortunately these things do not make a successful marriage.

1. Love and Commitment.

A decision to be committed forever - that's what  defines true love. When things are going well, commitment is easy. But true love is displayed by remaining committed even through the trials of life.

2.Humility. 

We all have weaknesses and relationships always reveal these faults quicker than anything else on earth. An essential building block of a healthy marriage is the ability to admit that you are not perfect, that you will make mistakes, and that you will need forgiveness.

3. Patience and forgiveness.

Because no one is perfect, patience and forgiveness will always be required. We are all humans, we all can get angry and say something stupid that we will regret. The thing is that this is okay, the most important is to step over the pride and admit that you were wrong. Another essential element is to learn how to forgive. It may not be easy bur it is worth it. Grievance has nothing to do with good it will only hurt the relationship.

4. Time Investment.

Relationships don't work without time and investment. Never have, never will. Any successful relationship requires intentional, quality time together. Watching a movie or having dinner together is always a great idea, but a romantic date is even better. 

5. Honesty and trust.

Honesty and trust become the foundation for everything healthy in a marriage. But unlike most of the other essentials on this list, trust takes time. You can become selfless, committed, or patient in a moment, but trust always takes time.

6. Communication

Successful marriage partners communicate as much as possible. You should certainly discuss kids’ schedules, grocery lists, and utility bills. But don’t stop there. Also talk about hopes, dreams, fears, and anxieties. 

7. Space

Giving each other space may be much more important for a healthy relationship than you may think. 

8. Romance.

Try giving her flowers someday from her favorite local florist. And you will be amazed at how far a little romance goes toward strengthening.