Is a Happy Marriage Only Seven Steps Away?

According to a recent article, you can have a successful and happy marriage if you follow seven simple steps. If this sounds too good to be true, it’s understandable. But, just as losing 20 pounds in one month with limited exercise is unlikely but not impossible, so goes it for marital bliss via seven simple steps.

Step 1 suggests that couples start with communication. Open, honest communication is vital to a healthy relationship. Even if couples find only 15 minutes a day to talk with each other about their hopes, fears, and dreams, this will keep the lines of communication open for when the big issues arise. The next step is to be respectful to each other. Step 3, treating each other with dignity, goes hand-in-hand with respect and will keep the foundation of the relationship strong.

Step 4 is to remember that compromise is not a bad word. Rather than viewing it as giving in or giving up, each partner should view the common ground in their decisions as a way of working together to achieve an outcome that will be mutually satisfying for each. This leads to Step 5, which requires full disclosure with respect to finances. Secrets can kill relationships, and this especially true in the case of money matters. Separate accounts, investments, and purchases are OK, as long as you’re on the same page regarding the overall financial picture.

The next step may be the most difficult for some. However, respecting and bonding with in-laws is necessary for a happy marriage. Even if you don’t become best friends with your extended family, you should make an effort to be civil and cordial when you are together. Any stress between you and them could spill into your marriage. And when difficulties arise, it is nice to know that there is no animosity preventing your family from supporting you when you need them most. The final step is probably the easiest—and most fun: Keep the romance alive! Says marriage counselor Sanjoy Mukerji: “Give appreciation, attention and quality time to your partner, whenever genuinely possible.” Even if you find some of the other steps challenging, this step will make the others worthwhile.

Reference:
Sawant, Purvaja. 7 secrets to a long-lasting marriage. (n.d.): n. pag. Times of India. 21 Oct. 2012. Web. 21 Oct. 2012. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/relationships/man-woman/7-secrets-to-a-long-lasting-marriage/articleshow/16891541.cms

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