SEVEN HABITS FOR SUCCESSFUL MARRIAGES

We all recognize that good habits contribute to overall well-being, professional success, and physical health. Similarly, strong and fulfilling marriages share certain key practices, much like successful businesses operate on fundamental principles.

While there are countless small habits that contribute to a happy relationship—such as small daily gestures or kind words—this list focuses on seven major habits. Consider using these as a guide: if you’re already practicing them, fantastic! If not, choose one and begin incorporating it into your routine. Remember, habits develop one day at a time.

1. Communicate Daily Make it a priority to talk about your day every single day. These small daily check-ins help maintain open lines of communication, making it easier to navigate larger conversations when needed. Regular dialogue ensures that your relationship remains connected and free from unnecessary obstacles. This habit is essential for a thriving marriage.

2. Share a Daily Kiss Not just on special occasions, but every single day. Relationship expert John Gottman suggests a six-second kiss daily—long enough to feel meaningful and intimate. Think of it as a simple yet powerful way to nurture connection and affection in your marriage.

3. Make Decisions Together Commit to discussing important matters privately before giving an answer to others. Whether it’s accepting an invitation, making a financial choice, or agreeing to an obligation, take the time to consult with your spouse first. Saying, "I’ll check with my partner and get back to you" can prevent misunderstandings, disagreements, and potential resentment.

4. Prioritize Your Marriage Demonstrate—both to your spouse and to those around you—that your marriage is your top priority. Before making a commitment, ask yourself, “Will this strengthen my relationship or pull me away from it?” Ensuring that your decisions align with your priorities will help keep your marriage strong and centered.

5. Express Gratitude Daily Regularly expressing appreciation benefits both you and your spouse. Looking for positive aspects to acknowledge each day fosters a grateful mindset, while your spouse feels valued and recognized. If this isn’t already a habit, start by intentionally expressing gratitude and making it a regular practice.

6. Accept Differences Embrace the fact that you and your spouse will have differences, and that’s okay. The qualities that make each of you unique are also what make your relationship dynamic. You don’t have to share every interest—what matters is respecting and valuing each other’s individuality. Long-term happiness comes from appreciating differences rather than letting them create divisions.

7. Add Fun and Flirtation Keep the playfulness alive in your marriage by incorporating what we’ll call “Vitamin F2” — Flirtation and Fun. Just as a marathon runner needs hydration, your relationship needs moments of joy and lightheartedness to keep it energized. Laugh together, tease each other, and find ways to bring joy to your everyday life, even during challenging times.

By practicing these seven habits, you’ll create a foundation of resilience for difficult times and fill your marriage with moments of love and connection that you can rely on when challenges arise. Now, what habit would you add to this list?

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A thriving marriage isn’t built on luck—it’s built on intentional habits. At Giving Hope Counselling Services, our expert therapists are here to help you and your spouse cultivate the habits that make marriages truly happy and resilient.

Are you looking to:

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✅ Prioritize your marriage despite life’s demands?

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Giving Hope Counselling Services – Helping Marriages Flourish.