Couples Gave Awesome Marriage Advice on Reddit
There's a lot of great marriage advice to consider, whether it's from a professional couples therapist or your best friend. But there's something special about words of wisdom from a couple that's been married for many years.
On one Reddit thread, married users share their best pieces of advice for younger couples. Covering everything from debt and finances to defining what "flexibility" and "balance" mean in their relationship, the results are sweet, thoughtful and inspiring. Whether they've been married for 20 years or 40, it's clear they know a thing or two about getting it right.
"My husband and I always 'check in' with each other and ask about the day, feelings for the day, feelings/ideas/hesitations/excitement for the future…"
"My wife and I have frequent 'state of the marriage' discussions. It's a time when we can bring up anything that's been bothering us, big or small, and do it in a way we can listen to each other openly without taking offense and then brainstorm ways that we can resolve those issues (if any)."
"The effort will never be equal, but it has to be equitable. If your [significant other] does a hefty dose of something, try and pick up the slack elsewhere. At the very least, acknowledge what they're doing and show appreciation."
"Flexibility means you don't have to compromise yourself but means you just have to stretch yourself and ideas. You'll be surprised just how flexible one can be."
"Hands down, best thing we have ever done is to get our debt down as much as possible, and communicate about how we view money."
"Don't keep score. If you're always worried about who does more of what, you're missing the big picture. At the same time, don't take advantage of your [significant other]. Do the dishes without being asked. Vacuum."
"Hold hands (or touch) when fighting."
"Compromise often. Always say 'I love you' and kiss goodnight, even if you're fighting. [It] helps break the tension and reminds you why you're truly there."
"Do pick a regular spot for dinner, breakfast, whatever, and make it a ritual. That place becomes your personal Switzerland where even if you've both had a rough week, the ritual of going there will break the ice. My wife and I have eaten at the same Mexican place just about every Friday for 15 years."
"My husband and I have been together for nearly 20 years. One thing that has made our marriage strong is asking ourselves one simple question each day, 'What can I do for my spouse today that would make their day easier, less stressful or more enjoyable?'"
"As for advice, the simplest and most salient I can offer is never take anything for granted.… When people feel their efforts are sincerely appreciated and acknowledged—even after a dozen years of marriage—they continue to behave and feel like newlyweds."
"The key to a happy marriage is separate blankets. It seems silly and lighthearted, which it is, but it's also so very true."
"You are now a team. Your spouse is your teammate, and you are theirs. Your team is the most important thing in your life now, do what it takes to work together to reach your goals."