The Things Successful Marriages Have in Common
By Sara Butler
Marriage is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s a long time to spend with just one person, so of course there will be bumps in the road along the way. Some people are able to navigate the bumps while others aren’t able to. So, what makes for a successful marriage? The answers might just surprise you!
They Give Each Other a Little Privacy
It’s inevitable that you will know a lot of things about your partner, but having small secrets are important in lasting unions. Of course, a big secret such as infidelity or financial issues are not good secrets to keep, but a little bit of privacy is good for a lasting relationship. After all, it may not be great things to tell your partner what you really think about their parents.
They Get Married Later in Life
Studies have found that couples who get married later in life are more successful. For women, the magic number seems to be after age 27, while for men it’s after age 29. It turns out that waiting to get married later makes for a more financially stable marriage in a higher socioeconomic class than those who get married younger. And, they are also less likely to divorce.
Taking Vacations
There is some evidence that couples who are able to get away, sans children, at least twice a year are happiest – and who wouldn’t be? And even though almost everyone loves a great vacation, it is especially good for the bonds of marriage since it helps to remind married couples why they like and love each other so much. So, if you’ve been on a fence about that trip to Bermuda, do it!
They’re Friends
Couples who were friends first or who refer to their partner as their best friend now tend to be the happiest. This is because loving someone also means you usually really like them, and if they’re given top friend status then you must really like them! Studies have found that couples who put more emphasis on their friendship are happier than other couples.
They Fight
It is not true that fighting is bad for a relationship. A good, old-fashioned kerfuffle is good for your relationship. A lifetime with someone is going to include disagreements and it’s best to air your grievances or they’ll just manifest in unhealthy ways. Fights should lead to a good conversation to work it out and find a resolution.