In marriage, the journey is more important than the destination. Therefore, for a marriage to be successful, it requires continuous efforts, care, and attention. The countless small, little efforts that we put into our marriages that strengthen trust and protect intimacy over time is what matters and not necessarily the gestures we show towards each other on anniversaries or birthdays.
Marriage
By putting consistent efforts into their marriages, couples can enhance marital bliss according to a study published in Personal Relationships. When couples build up that habit of investing in their marriage, they create partnerships that not only survive but thrive for years to come.
Listed below are the six things that you can put into your marriage to help it thrive long-term.
Emotional Gestures
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These are small gestures that lay the foundation for fundamental feelings: fondness and admiration. When one focuses on strengthening these emotions, one can also contribute to positive sentiment override (PSO) which encourages more joy within marriages.
There is a need for the little gesture to show your partner love. In fact, small gestures such as hugging, holding hands, and regular acts of kindness all top the list of how most individuals feel appreciated and loved.
Emotional gestures far exceed mere words of affection, they also involve being fully around and responsive to your partner’s emotional needs. Being a good listener and offering your undivided attention when your partner shares their feelings, concerns, or dreams enhances one’s perception that you care for them, which in turn enhances satisfaction in relationships (Banks, 2024).
Material Gestures
In relationships and especially marriages, one’s actions are louder than words. Gifting your spouse, leaving love notes, or planning a surprise date can make your partner feel deeply appreciated (Bokek-Cohen & Halamish-Leshem). Gestures can be shown in numerous ways. For instance, helping out your partner with financial planning and expenditure can demonstrate one’s commitment to the relationship.
What these actions demonstrate is that you are willing to invest resources, time, and effort into making your partner feel special and loved. Material gestures shouldn’t be the only way we show affection towards our partners although they add a tangible layer of appreciation that reinforces emotional bonds.
Respecting Personal Space
In marriages or relationships, giving each other some personal space is very essential. It is good to strike a balance between intimacy and independence. What demonstrates self-assuredness and respect for your spouse’s autonomy is when you allow them time for self-care, hobbies, and individual growth (Banks, 2024)
To prevent burnout in relationships, respecting one’s personal space is vital as each partner has the opportunity to recharge and bring their best selves back to the marriage. This can also create a greater appreciation for time spent together.
Prioritising Physical Intimacy
It is important to maintain physical attraction and a healthy sex life with your partner as it is a crucial aspect in marriage. You don’t have to change your looks or behave a certain way to your partner but rather staying mindful of physical intimacy and making time to connect will help sustain the romantic spark.
Sex plays an important role in increasing intimacy between romantic partners whereby regular sex has been linked to lower divorce rates among couples who are married. It is also beneficial for physical and psychological health which includes lowering stress, improving sleep, and boosting immune function. Sex in relationships may also boost happiness levels and help couples bond.
Taking Part in Activities Together
Activities that couples engage in together, including taking a weekend trip, cooking together, or taking up a new hobby, assist in forming enduring memories and improve relationships. These activities foster affection between people in addition to providing a chance to bond, laugh, and develop as a team. Taking time out of daily routines to spend time together can also reignite desire and promote a closer bond.
Sharing such happy times with one another helps couples develop emotional capital,” which fortifies relationships and shields them from potential difficulties. Spouses with higher emotional capital tended to interpret their partners’ actions in a more benevolent and forgiving manner, which in turn predicted reduced reactivity to partners’ transgressions.
Assisting a Partner’s Family and Friends
Great marriages are much more than just a partnership. Investing in your partner’s family is essential, and by fostering a feeling of community, this bond may strengthen your marriage.
Helping your spouse’s family when they are in need or just being there for them at crucial events and get-togethers shows that you value the people in their lives.
Conclusion
Creating a successful marriage takes effort, requiring deliberate and persistent actions. While love is essential, it isn’t the only factor. Investing in your relationship fosters a cycle of contentment, trust, and joy that benefits both partners throughout life.
FAQs
1. Why are small gestures important in a marriage?
Small gestures nurture fondness and admiration, the cornerstones of a strong marriage. They foster a sense of appreciation and emotional security, contributing to marital satisfaction over time.
2. How can material gestures improve a marriage?
Material gestures like giving thoughtful gifts or helping with chores demonstrate commitment and love, reinforcing emotional bonds and making your partner feel valued.
3. Why is personal space important in marriage?
Respecting personal space ensures partners have the opportunity to recharge and pursue personal growth, ultimately enhancing the quality of shared time and mutual respect.
References
Bokek-Cohen, Y., & Halamish-Leshem, R. (2024). Does it pay to invest in your couple relationship? Family Relations, 73(2), 1235–1247. https://doi.org/10.1111/fare.12941
Banks, D. (2024). 21 Secrets for a Successful Marriage. https://www.marriage.com/advice/relationship/15-key-secrets-to-a-successful-marriage/
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