The secret to a happy marriage that lasts forever

Hi Chris,

I’m in a lovely marriage and we’re honest and committed. However, I sometimes wonder how to take it to the next level. What makes a marriage last forever?

Sincerely,

Next Level

Chris says,

Dear Next Level,

It’s a whole host of little things! Many couples stop trying, so don’t!

Help your husband become as open and uninhibited as possible. Encourage him to do the same for you. Everyone has hangups. Perhaps he’s self-conscious about his body? Make sure he knows you love every inch of him and you’ll both benefit.

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Become the kind of couple who shares their deepest worries. That’s one of the best things about relationships but most spouses are afraid to open up.

So, if your husband begins to talk about a problem, don’t say a word. Just listen. Turn off your phone and focus. Encourage him to do the same when you need to talk.

Smile often and avoid sounding disapproving. If you’re worried about something, plan how you ask. Such inquiries can easily sound critical.

Any time you’re about to disagree, ask yourself if it really matters. If not, keep quiet.

If an argument is going nowhere, schedule another time to continue the discussion. In the meantime, do something pleasant together, like watching a movie or having a nice meal.

Praise each other. And appreciate even the smallest things, like taking out the garbage. Many spouses become unhappy because their partners don’t seem to value them.

Give each other your time. Even if you’re doing different things, do them together. Take an interest in what you’re both doing so you can discuss it later.

Figure out how you both prefer to be loved. How your husband likes being touched. The words he likes hearing.

Do something kind for each other every day. Take note of things your husband likes. Then, you’ll never be short of ideas for special occasions.

Do romantic things you’ll remember for years. Be mischievous together and sleep naked. Recreate what you did on holiday when you’re back home.

And you’ll be happy forever.

All the best,

Chris