Things I Wish I Knew Before I Said "I Do"

Getting married is often seen as a fairy tale ending, a milestone moment in our lives when we commit to spending forever with the person we love. However, as anyone who has walked down the aisle can testify, marriage is far from being a fairy tale. In fact, there are many things I wish I knew before I said "I do." In this article, I will share some of the lessons I've learned on my journey as a spouse. From communication to compromise, let's dive into the realities of married life.

The Importance of Communication

One of the most crucial aspects of any successful marriage is communication. While we often believe that our partners can read our minds, the truth is that they can't. Expressing our feelings, thoughts, and concerns openly is vital to maintaining a healthy relationship. It's essential to establish effective communication early on and regularly check in with one another. Whether it's discussing finances, future plans, or even simple daily happenings, open and honest communication is the key to avoiding misunderstandings and strengthening the bond between partners.

The Art of Compromise

Before marriage, we often have a clear idea of what we want and how we want things to be. However, when two individuals come together as a couple, compromise becomes an indispensable skill. Compromise does not mean giving up our values or desires but rather finding a middle ground where both partners feel heard and respected. It requires empathy and understanding, recognizing that a successful marriage is built on the foundation of mutual support and compromise. Learning to compromise has allowed me and my partner to navigate various challenges and grow closer together.

What Mums Want (and Dads Need to Know): Things I Wish I Knew Before I Said I Do

by Harry Benson(Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3373 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	227 pages

FREE

Money Matters

Finances can be a significant source of stress in a marriage. It's crucial to have open discussions about money and establish a clear financial plan from the beginning. Whether it's creating a joint budget or deciding on individual financial responsibilities, having transparent conversations about financial matters can prevent unnecessary tension and arguments. It's also essential to remember that financial goals and priorities can change over time, so regular check-ins and adjustments are necessary to ensure that both partners are on the same page.

Embracing Change and Growth

Marriage is not a stagnant state; it's a constant journey of growth and change. As individuals, we evolve and develop over time, and the same goes for our relationships. It's essential to embrace these changes and give each other room to grow. Supporting one another's dreams and personal growth is a vital aspect of a successful marriage. Celebrating each other's achievements and navigating through challenges together helps in maintaining a strong bond and keeping the spark alive.

The Power of Forgiveness

No relationship is perfect, and conflicts are inevitable. Learning to forgive and let go of grudges is a vital step in any marriage. Holding onto anger and resentment can poison the relationship and hinder personal growth. Forgiveness doesn't mean forgetting or condoning hurtful behavior, but it allows both partners to move forward and rebuild trust. It's essential to address issues openly and honestly, express emotions without blame, and genuinely strive for resolution. Practicing forgiveness has taught me that letting go of past mistakes and focusing on the future is crucial for a healthy marriage.

Finding Balance

Marriage is a beautiful union, but it's also important to maintain a sense of individuality and personal interests. Finding a balance between shared activities and personal pursuits can help in avoiding feelings of suffocation or losing one's identity within the marriage. It's essential to continue nurturing hobbies and friendships outside of the relationship, which can bring new experiences and perspectives into the marriage. Striking a balance between togetherness and independence has allowed me and my partner to grow both as individuals and as a couple.

Marriage is a lifelong commitment that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. While there is no perfect manual on how to navigate married life, there are valuable lessons we can learn from those who have walked the path before us. Communicating openly, compromising, addressing financial matters, embracing change, practicing forgiveness, and finding balance are just some of the key elements that contribute to a successful marriage. By being aware of these lessons, we can enter married life with a greater sense of preparedness, understanding, and love.

What Mums Want (and Dads Need to Know): Things I Wish I Knew Before I Said I Do

by Harry Benson(Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3373 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	227 pages

FREE

Everyone wants a relationship that lasts. Yet nearly half of all today's parents split up.

Harry and Kate Benson began their own married life with great expectations. But within a few years, they stood on the brink of divorce. Today, their marriage is stronger than ever and they have helped many other struggling couples. So what changed? In this ground-breaking book Harry and Kate tell their own inspiring, hope-filled story, set within the wider context of family research into what works. Harry and Kate's radical solution to strengthening families and reducing unnecessary family breakdown is simple. Their research suggests a happy mum tends to mean a happy household. She is the lynchpin around whom the family rotates. So for most mums, the success of a marriage depends primarily on her husband's ability to make her feel valued. In other words: husband, love your wife. And she will love you right back. In that order. That's what mums want. That's the recipe for happy family life.