Ways to Keep Your Marriage Strong

1 Respect One Another

We respect each other's differences, needs, desires, and concerns. Frequently offer up words of encouragement, acknowledgment, and appreciation to your spouse for both the things they do and for who they are.

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2 Talk

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And not just about the kids! Like, really talk to each other. My husband and I talk about everything from the weather (boring, I know) to crazy ideas that are sure to turn us into millionaires if we only took the time to pursue them.

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3 Laugh

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Laughter really is the best medicine. Plan a night out at your local comedy club, or cozy up on the couch with a funny movie. If watching someone else isn't your thing, corny jokes and old-fashioned pillow fights work just as well.

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4 Date Each Other

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We take turns planning date nights. Sometimes it's dinner and a movie. Other times it's ice cream and a stroll up and down the aisles of Target. It doesn't matter where we go, as long as we're out together.

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5 Be a United Front

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We are a team. It's as simple as that. When it comes to decision making, planning, or dealing with family drama, always make sure you and your spouse are on the same page and approach every situation as a united front.

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6 Maintain Your Own Sense of Self

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We love spending time together, but we also need time away from each other every now and again. Allowing each other the freedom to take a day or night to ourselves gives us the opportunity to reset, and it gives us another reason to appreciate what we have.

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7 Fight

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We fight. Over the course of our relationship, we've learned how to carefully choose our words, be sensible, and work to find some common ground. Remember that both sides can't always get what they want, and comprise is key.

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8 Apologize

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Apologizing can be hard even when you know you're wrong, and it's especially hard when emotions are running high. But do your best to take a deep breath, and say you're sorry. You'll be surprised at how quickly those two words can turn everything around.

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9 Be Each Other's Biggest Supporter

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Validate your spouse with encouraging words. When they succeed, share in their excitement. When they fail, lift them up. Support them in their choices, and never forget to let them know that you're proud of them.

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10 Be Each Other's Best Friend

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Remember that this is the person with whom you have chosen to spend your life. Be their cheerleader, their sounding board, and their confidante. But most importantly, be their friend.

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