‘Love is all you need’, says the song. But is it, really? Is love alone enough for a perfect relationship? As with everything else, a beautiful marriage requires work. Think of it as a canvas, a work in progress. Even when you are at a good place, there are some things to do or avoid, if you want to grow old and grey with your partner.
Be Heard
This marriage is one of the truly rare occasions in life when you get the chance to build something profound and meaningful from scratch. Don’t be afraid to voice your wishes and opinions. Your partner will never know what you want and expect from him and your relationship unless you tell him. Sure, he is awesome, but he is probably not a mind reader. The best marriages are a team effort. Be an equal member of that team, and your man will love and appreciate you for it.
Accept Your Partner
Do you want to know the one sure way to have a fight? Trying to change another person. Of course your partner has flaws, just like everyone else. But before you start nagging, think: do they really bother you? Don’t try to mould him to be just like you. If his way is also acceptable, just different, accept that. If the issues you’re having are real deal breakers, instead of fighting, talk honestly to him. Gently explain what bothers you, and ask him to work on it. Be understanding if it doesn’t work out straight away and give him points for effort. The change might be slow and gradual, or you might even get used to it with time.
Stay Freaky in the Bedroom
After years and years of intimacy, passion tends to fizzle out. You get to know your partner’s body as well as your own, and get lulled into a feeling of safety and cosiness. The feeling is lovely, but not that sexy. However, you can easily turn the situation around. Knowing each other so well and being comfortable with each other has its advantages too. Now that you no longer have to preoccupy yourself with the question “Does he think I should lose weight”, you have the freedom to live out your fantasies. Role play, watch porn together, buy a few toys. And, though it might sound strange, schedule sex. It’s easy to lose track of time and give in to the stress and exhaustion of your everyday routine. When that happens, your sex life usually suffers. Scheduled freaky time reminds you to carve out the time to reconnect.
Don’t Let Yourself Go
Yes, your partner still loves you even when you have a bad hair day, or you just haven’t had the time to shave your legs. You don’t have to ask yourself that dreadful question: does he like me for who I am? However, it’s not wise to make it a habit. The reason is twofold: you still want your man to find you attractive; but also, looking good will boost your confidence and make you feel good about yourself. And, haven’t you heard? Confidence is irresistible!
Have Your Partner’s Back
For better or for worse, in sickness and in health, you said! Marriage is, ultimately, a partnership and a friendship. Don’t forget to support your partner. A lot of people make the mistake of thinking some things go without saying. Everyone enjoys knowing they are appreciated and loved, everyone needs a helping hand, and everyone needs their morale boosted every once in a while. Be sure to recognize that moment and let your man know you are his biggest cheerleader. After all, feeling secure and supported even brings its own health benefits.
If you respect and cherish your partner, as you would like to be cherished and respected, your love will only continue to grow. It will be your safe haven for years to come. True love is not easy to come by, so nurture yours and it will become your pride and joy.
