6 Ways To Maintain A Successful and Happy Marriage

Being married is hard. After the honeymoon is over, then the couple has to face real life, with all its ups and downs, all the responsibilities and the big fear that romance could come to an end.

Of course, love plays a crucial part in a marriage, but love alone isn't enough.

Unluckily, no matter how hot the relationship felt in the beginning, romance will burn out and turn to ashes unless a couple keeps on fuelling their relationship.

No matter how much passion was generated by the connection as the couple grew more intimate and committed early on, the long voyage of marriage can transport a couple far from their romantic origins or the fantasized “happily ever after.”

So what can you do? Here are six tips for a successful marriage:

1. Learn how to compromise.

Compromise is a significant component in a relationship. Marriage should not be one-sided. Marriage is about both parties making decisions together, sharing responsibilities and meeting in the middle when one party does not completely agree with the other. Love isn't about winning; it's about playing together.

2. Don't be afraid of marriage's crises.

A crisis doesn't determine that the marriage is over. Crises are like storms: loud, scary and dangerous. However, to get through a storm, you have to keep driving. A crisis can be a new start. Pain helps us grow and become better.

3. Affection is essential.

When you first see your partner in the morning, instead of having a negative or even neutral interaction, greet them with a compliment. Show them that you're happy to wake up beside them. When you're both at work, don't hesitate to send them a sweet message, reminding them how much you love them. Hug them tight when you're both back at home.

These are all simple everyday things that we sometimes forget to do, thinking they're insignificant. But they do matter and can keep love alive.

4. Say how you feel.

The way your partner and you communicates is of the highest importance. You should be able to openly share your emotions with your partner and listen when they are talking to you. Simply then you will be able to understand each other’s feelings and find ways to improve together.

5. Sex is important.

Sex can maintain a couple's bond. Sex can make both individuals feel appreciated and sexier. If you observe that you're both usually very tired and avoid sleeping together, then you should try to change that. Take a day off, just for the two of you. Discuss your sexual life. Remember that sex isn't only good for your marriage; it also has many health benefits for the both of you.

6. Be honest.

If you believe you aren’t connecting with your partner the way you used to, there is the need to say something — and better do it now. Don't feel bad to discuss anything that troubles you, even if you are afraid that this might end the relationship. Being honest is better, and you should try to do something about your marriage when it's still early. If you let it pass, it would become even harder for both of you. Be honest, to your partner and to yourself.