by Laura Leigh Fields

Created on: September 28, 2007

The decision to enter into matrimony can be a big one. You find the one you truly love and you want to spend the rest of your life with them. You want things to last forever. You have decided to live your life as husband and wife.

Many people are different after marriage. Keep that in mind when you get married. Your partner may have little quirks like leaving up the toilet seat, chewing with their mouth open, or not cleaning up after themselves. Remember that no one is perfect. Learn to practice acceptance and love them no matter what.

Keep the lines of communication open at all times. Don't be intimidated by your spouse. Be friends first. Talk about everything together. Consult each other with decisions and make them together. Let your partner be the one you lean on. Discuss everything with each other. Couples who sneak around and keep secrets from each other don't usually last long.

Meet each other halfway. Always keep things fifty- fifty. If one person does all the work in the relationship, they will soon get burnt out. Help your mate with chores, errands, and other important activities. Learn to compromise and delegate work equally.

Don't let yourselves settle or get into a funk. Many couples get over the honeymoon stage and then just drift apart. They begin to feel more like roommates than a married couple. Try to keep things fun and surprising. Leave your partner little notes and reminders that you still care.

Make time for each other, even if it is only a few minutes a day. A little time is better than no time at all. Go out together. Share similar hobbies and interests or develop new skills together. Get out and move around. Be proud to be with each other.

Make physical contact with each other. Sometimes, a simple touch can mean more than words. Hold hands and kiss. Cuddle. Keep the spark and the electricity there and alive. Try to keep an active sexual lifestyle. Try new positions or ideas. Be willing to learn things together. Let your partner know that you still desire them.

Marriage is meant to be a final thing. For some people, it is the beginning. For others, it can be the end. Hold up to your end of the bargain. Mean what you say when you exchange vows. Remember that marriage is more than words on paper. Love and cherish your spouse. Stick to your commitment. Do whatever it takes, within reason, to keep your relationship alive.

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