MARRIAGE WEEK_ THE 10 SECRETS OF HAPPY COUPLES BY DAVE WILLIS.

People today think that happiness in marriage is destined to fade with time. Don’t buy into that myth. Marriage should age like a fine wine getting sweeter with time. Here are 10 distinct _time-proven_ secrets of happy couples. If you’ll implement these principles into your own marriage, you will undoubtedly experience more happiness too.

In no particular order, the ten principles that can cultivate more happiness in your marriage are:

1: BE QUICK TO APOLOGIZE AND QUICK TO OFFER GRACE TO EACH OTHER: Someone once said that being in love means never having to say you’re sorry. Whoever said that has probably been divorced five times! The truth is that we must be humble enough to quickly and wholeheartedly admit fault when we’ve blown it. We must also be quick to offer forgiveness and grace when our spouse apologizes. We can’t keep score of each other’s wrongs or use past mistakes and ammunition in arguments. We must forgive, work to rebuild the trust that was damaged and move forward. Holding a grudge makes you bitter. Forgiveness sets you free.

2. MAKE LAUGHTER OF THE SOUNDTRACK OF YOUR MARRIAGE: Even in the difficult seasons of marriage, there is always a reason to laugh together. We believe a lack of laughter in a marriage is like a lack of fuel in a vehicle. You need to fill up your marriage with laughter to keep it running! If laughter has faded in your home, then look for ways to get it back on track. Put “fun” back on the calendar. Be playful and flirtatious with each other. Every marriage needs a lot of laughter and laughing together is one of the most intimate and enjoyable acts a couple can share. So, start doing things that will bring more laughter.

3. LEARN FROM OTHER COUPLES, BUT DON'T COMPARE YOUR MARRIAGE TO ANYONE ELSE'S: The “Comparison Trap” is the killer of happiness. If you find yourself scrolling through social media comparing your struggles to the airbrushed highlight reels of other people, then you’re never going to feel happy or content with your own life. It’s healthy to learn from other people (especially our mentors), but it’s unhealthy to try to measure your life or marriage against theirs. God’s plans for you are masterfully unique.

4. CULTIVATE A CULTURE OF GRATITUTE IN YOUR MARRIAGE. SAY “THANK YOU” OFTEN: Thank each other often and show genuine appreciation for all your spouse does. Be thankful to God as well for the gifts in your life. An attitude of gratitude is one of the biggest keys to happiness. When you choose to be thankful for your life and for each other, every aspect of life can be enjoyed with more freedom.

[to be continued]

DAVE WILLIS.