Make your Marriage Work The wedding is
over and the real work begins. How do you keep the love alive? Our consultants say:
Accept your partner, faults and all Constant criticism can kill a relationship. If you married someone thinking that he/she
will change under your influence, think again. You're only setting yourself up for disappointment and anger. Work out important issues like religion, lifestyle, work/play habits, parenting and emotional
needs. Too often, people expect their spouse to spend a lot of time with them (like they did before marriage, perhaps); sometimes it works and sometimes each has to be his/her own person.
Mutual Respect No power struggle. Compromise if
you have to. Each needs to learn to listen to the other and respect his/her view. Be Honest with your Anger
Because we are Asians, many of us have learned to avoid open confrontation, and talking honestly about how we feel.
Psychologists say that we need to talk about what is bothering us, and who better to talk to than our spouse? If what's bothering you is
your spouse, honesty is always best, provided you avoid direct personal attacks and hurtful words. Eventually you'll come to a better understanding of each other. Become your Spouse's Best Friend An intimate relationship is important but with the day to day
events of life, it's impossible to be physical all the time. Couples should work towards being each other's friend as well as lover. Above all, stay committed to maintaining a good marriage. |