The first year of marriage often has more than its fair share of problems and challenges, especially after the emotional high of the wedding day. It can be all too easy for many newlywed couples to forget that marriage is about mutual respect and compromise, as they tend to compete with each other or feel that they aren’t good enough for the other person. Surviving your first year of being married is possible, however; it just takes a little work and these tips may help you make that first year a lot easier.
1) Respect
It’s important to treat your partner with kindness and respect, even on those days that you don’t agree with each other, and find that you argue over almost everything, however trivial it is. Be sure to keep your cool and don’t butt heads with your partner; lightening the mood if they are being difficult or moody can often make all the difference.
2) Ask For Advice
Asking family and other married friends for advice is okay, and it’s nothing to be embarrassed about. It’s a lot easier to deal with problems is you get advice from someone who may have had the same problem, whether it’s to do with finances or you don’t get on with the in-laws as well as you should.
3) Hello Family!
It’s just as important to treat family members with respect too, as all these people are suddenly going to be an essential part of the life of any newlywed. Other family members shouldn’t ruin your relationship with your spouse.
4) Arguing Is Inevitable
Constructive arguing is part of any good relationship, and arguing is inevitable. Just keep things respectful and don’t end up screaming at each other and losing your temper. If you feel like you’re losing it, it’s okay to walk away and take some air.
5) The Best Laid Plans
Being on the same page when it comes to making necessary plans for the two of you is essential, whether those plans concern kids, finances or a career goal. Discuss critical issues and understand that it takes time to figure some things out, so don’t expect to have an answer by bedtime.
6) Are You Jealous?
Talking to each other is essential, rather than going behind each other’s backs to find things out, especially if one of you is the jealous type. Ask questions and talk things through, rather than speculating or being accusing.
7) Money Isn’t Everything
When talking about money, try to keep a clear head and keep the arguing and disagreements to a minimum. There shouldn’t be anything to argue about if everything is clear and spelled out when it comes to bills, spending and finances. Keeping written records and talking them over now and then can ensure you are both on the same page.
8) Date Night
Just because you are newlyweds, it doesn’t mean you can’t have a romantic date night every so often. And that’s especially important if one or both of you work long hours and don’t see each other all week.
9) Don’t Blame Each Other
There’s a big difference between telling your partner they did something wrong or could have done it differently, and blaming them for something. And never blame your partner for issues that have already been resolved; those are behind you and don’t need to be dragged up again.
10) Trust
Trusting each other is one of the most critical aspects of any marriage and you won’t get peace of mind if you are always doubting your spouse. Putting yourself in your spouse’s place will give you an idea of just how unpleasant it is not to be trusted.
