7 Keys to a Successful Marriage

Marriage is not an easy proposition. In fact, it is one of the most difficult things two people can do successfully. Marriage is work and successful marriages have two people who know that. With a little work, it is possible to have a successful marriage. Here are a few keys to successful marriage.

1. Common Courtesy

Common courtesy is one of the keys to a successful marriage. “Please,” “thank you,” “if you don't mind” and the like will go a long way in making your marriage successful. These simple phrases, when used honestly, can make it much easier to live with and love the most difficult people.

2. Communication

Communication is another key to a successful marriage. Two important factors in good communication is knowing what and when to talk about something. A married couple should be able to talk about anything, but that doesn't mean they should. It also doesn't mean that any time is the right time to know when to talk about specific topics. Know your partner and yourself well enough to know when to communicate and what talk to talk about.

3. Priorities

Understand your priorities and the priorities of your spouse. Make sure that you respect those priorities and work hard to meet your priorities as well as those of your spouse. Write those priorities down and make sure you follow through with them.

4. Let It Slide

Another key to a successful marriage is to learn to “let it slide.” Do not start an argument over something that is trivial. Will the world end if the dishes aren't done a few times a month? If your spouse misses dinner to work late, will it end your marriage? Yes, over time, these little things will add up, but, looking at the big picture over the course of several years, they really shouldn't matter that much as long as they don't become habits.

5. Sex & Intimacy

Sex is a key to a successful marriage. Intimacy between spouses allows them to remain physically and emotionally connected. Although it isn't the most importance aspect of marriage, sex and intimacy should play a role. It should never be used as a weapon against your spouse. Both of your feelings toward sex should be respected.

6. Likeability

Another key to a successful marriage is likeability. Of course, you should love and be in love with your spouse, but you should also like your spouse. Strive to find ways to increase the likeability of your spouse and to make yourself more likeable. Look for and find common interests. Have fun together.

7. Commitment

Commitment is a key to a successful marriage. Marriage is not dating. It is not living together. Marriage isn't something you try for a while and, if it gets too hard, give up. Marriage is a lifelong commitment and should be treated as such. Yes, divorce is an option, but should only be used as a final choice.

Having a successful marriage is something that takes a lot of work, from both people. No marriage is perfect. By keeping these keys in mind, you will be on the road to successful marriage and making your marriage as perfect as possible.

With divorce rates high and seemingly on the rise, there are many options to explore before the costly venture of heading to court and dissolving your union.

Here is some information on divorces in the United States:

Infographic Credit

For more information be certain to check out the National Healthy Marriage Resource Center and/or For Your Marriage.