Maintaining joy in your marriage may seem simple at the outset, but can become challenging through years of trials, tribulations, and plenty of loss and growth. When you're committed to your spouse and intend to remain with them for the rest of your life, there is no reason to do so without feeling complete love and joy in your heart. Knowing how to go about maintaining the joy in your marriage will allow you to accomplish everything together as a couple, regardless of how long you have been together.
Listen to Your Spouse
Listening to your spouse is said to be one of the most fundamental aspects of a working relationship, especially when it comes to long-term marriages. The more your spouse feels listened to, heard, and truly understands, the easier it will be for you to maintain the bond you have built with one another. Anytime your spouse has something important to say, it's essential to stop what you are doing to listen, demonstrating respect and appreciation.
Forgive One Another
Forgiveness is just a part of life, especially when it comes to maintaining and cultivating long-term relationships with loved ones, including our spouses. If you are married, you will need to learn how to go about forgiving one another, as forgiveness is part of loving someone unconditionally. If your spouse upsets you or makes you mad, knowing how to communicate, apologize, and let go of past issues may be the key to ensuring joy in any marriage.
Get Your Finances in Order
Maintaining financial stability should always remain a top priority when you're in a marriage, regardless of how long you have been officially married under the eyes of God and in a court of law. When you have your finances in order, and you're not concerned about meeting basic needs, it is much easier to tend to the emotional needs of your partner and spouse. If you have amassed different assets together, or you want to manage your estate, keep in mind that estates over $5.4 million for single individuals and $10.8 million for married couples will be subject to estate taxes.
Surprise Your Partner With Simple Gifts and Quality Time
Surprising your partner with simple gifts and quality time can help maintain a relationship for a lifetime. According to one study, approximately 83% of individuals questioned say they enjoy receiving flowers unexpectedly. Taking time out of your day to surprise your spouse can show them that you care about them and are thinking about them, even when they least expect it.
Tackle DIY Projects Together
Tackling DIY projects together is a great way to bond while getting to know more about each other's styles and preferences. Home Stratosphere recently released a survey that revealed approximately 29% of all living rooms in the U.S. today include contemporary styles. Updating and renovating various areas of your home with your spouse is a great way to truly incorporate your favorite looks and the themes that are appealing to you both.
Appreciate One Another's Hobbies and Passions
Appreciating your partner's hobbies and passions will help them flourish and feel plenty of love for you. Supporting, motivating, and cheering on your partner when they're excited about new hobbies and passions can also bring you together. The more your partner feels seen and heard by you as their spouse, the less likely they are to ever feel distant, even over time.
If you want to maintain the joy in your marriage, you will need to truly take the time to tend to your partner's needs and the vision they have for your future together. The more in tune you are with your spouse, the easier it will be for you to provide what they need for years to come. When you understand what brings your partner joy, you will never find it a hassle to ensure happiness for both of you.
