Instructions for wedded bliss?

I was married once before and want to ensure my second marriage lasts forever. Educating myself by searching the Internet, scanning the library, asking friends and a few therapists, I have listed some of what I have found to be most useful for our relationship.

Respect your partner, and don't take him for granted.

Honesty is essential.

Communicate!!

Accept that some problems can't be solved. (This was a big one for me!)

Don't expect your partner to change; but at the same time give them more of what they want.

Develop a realistic view of committed relationships.

Make Time for One Another.

Can any of you add to this list?

Comments: 23

Jennifer K. Sep 24, 2009, 3:50pm EDT

Those are very good Carrie. I've only been married once, and we just celebrated our 10th anniversary.

Carrie Marie P. Sep 25, 2009, 5:28pm EDT

10 years? great!

Jennifer K. Sep 25, 2009, 6:12pm EDT

It's not always been great, but you can't stay mad. It's another way to keep your marriage strong.

Carrie Marie P. Sep 25, 2009, 7:06pm EDT

I've learned that for sure. Being angry only aggrivates the situation and makes everything seem bad. And, wastes energy!

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Mary G. Sep 24, 2009, 3:58pm EDT

I have been married a long time and must add be willing to admit your wrong. Its a hard one, but an important issue in any relationship. My husband and I have been together 30 years.

Also have a hobby that you do on your own, as everyone needs to have "me time" including the spouse.

Carrie Marie P. Sep 25, 2009, 5:29pm EDT

That is true!

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Joanne Vicente Sep 24, 2009, 4:36pm EDT

Be sure your friendship is at least as strong as your romance. That makes a lot of the other points automatic.

Carrie Marie P. Sep 25, 2009, 5:29pm EDT

It is important to be friends.

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Patrick Madrigal Sep 24, 2009, 5:00pm EDT

It's all for Love.. L-O-V-E....
...Michael Jackson "This Is It"

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Patrick Madrigal Sep 24, 2009, 5:00pm EDT

Glad things are working out....

Carrie Marie P. Sep 25, 2009, 5:29pm EDT

Well, you know.... I'm working on it.

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Montanna Cauble Sep 24, 2009, 5:35pm EDT

i'm happy that youre on the right track with this marriage. all of your points sound just right and they should help you through this just remember no matter how hard you try, there will still be ups and downs and just help each other through the bad times, such as death of a loved one and be there for them, and im sure he will be there for you too. but good luck may you have a long and happy life.

Carrie Marie P. Sep 25, 2009, 5:29pm EDT

Thank you, Montana!

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Aunt Boni H. Sep 24, 2009, 8:39pm EDT

wAG MORE,bARK LESS

Carrie Marie P. Sep 25, 2009, 5:30pm EDT

:) cute!

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dreama e. Sep 24, 2009, 11:13pm EDT

that our imperfections make us normal and special

Carrie Marie P. Sep 25, 2009, 5:30pm EDT

That is one way to look at it! :)

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Kathryn E. Sep 25, 2009, 1:51am EDT

time for one another and respect very high on the list

Featured in the Triple Name Club.

Carrie Marie P. Sep 25, 2009, 5:30pm EDT

awesome! thank you!

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Linda T. Sep 25, 2009, 3:51am EDT

Communication is on the top of my list. It is important to acknowledge your partners feelings and thoughts even if you do not agree with them.

~~when communication fails I do sometimes revert to childish behavior....sticking my tongue out when his back is turned can make me feel better.