by Lisa Fillers

Created on: October 07, 2008

Many young couples marry without realizing that a successful marriage takes work on the part of both spouses. A blissful, or even moderately happy, marriage does not just happen no matter how much the couple love each other on the day they say "I do". Both spouses have to be committed to each other and to making the marriage work for their lifetime. I think it would be of great value for a couple to receive pre-marital counseling on preventative measures to take to ensure a happy marriage and how to deal with a crisis in a marriage to prevent divorce. Let us take a look at both preventative and post crisis measures we can take.

There are several preventative measures a couple can take to build a stronger relationship that will withstand the test of time. The first step should occur prior to the marriage vows. Have a heart to heart talk with each other and outline what each one expects from the marriage. Really listen to each other. If one partner expects something the other cannot agree with, it is time to discuss a compromise or make a decision whether to proceed with the marriage vows or not. Do not promise the other something you know you will not follow through on. If the couple is of opposite religions or different races, know going into the marriage you may face difficulties caused by family or other outside influences. Discuss the potential problems and how you plan to handle those situations.

PREVENTION DURING MARRIAGE:

KEEP THE LOVE ALIVE: It becomes easy in this fast paced world to allow the special things we did for one another when we were dating to become a wonderful memory of the past. Work schedules, cooking meals, and raising children take a toll on our time. It only takes a few extra moments for a husband to stop at a convenience store on the way home and buy a single rose for his wife. It only takes a moment to stop and give your spouse a special kiss and hug or tell them how much you love them. It only takes a minute for a wife to tell her husband how much she appreciates him helping her with the housework. Take those moments or a minute and strive to never take your spouse for granted. Set aside time to have an evening out to enjoy each other's company the way you did while dating. A candlelit bath for two can be very romantic. A candlelight dinner in your own home can set the mood for a very romantic evening as well. Keep the romance alive and you keep the love alive.

VOW TO BE THE BEST SPOUSE YOU CAN BE: If you strive to be the best spouse

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