T I P S F O R A H A P P Y M A R R I A G EC R E A T E D B Y M A R C F I R E S T O N E

• Marriage is one of the most exciting and important aspects of our lives as human beings, and maintaining a healthy relationship with your spouse is vital for a happy marriage.

• Many people wonder what the sole secret is to having a happy marriage, but the truth is that there are a number of elements that make up a healthy marriage, not just one.

• Here are a few tips to help you maintain a healthy relationship with your spouse so you can both experience love for the long run…

• First, make sure you have a financial plan.

• According to a recent article published by Health.com, “Nearly 40% of married people admit to lying to their spouse about a purchase, according to a 2004 poll, and money woes can quickly send your marriage south. In fact, money is the number-one reason couples fight, and relationships tend to suffer during poor economies,” (9 Ways to Keep Your Marriage Healthy at Any Age).

• Having a strong financial plan, that details various financial ground rules is a smart move to make even before you officially get married.

• Another key factor that plays a large role in a happy marriage is to be flexible as a partner.

• This means that each spouse should share household duties, especially during transitional employment periods.

• According to Health.com’s interview with obstetrician and gynecologist at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and coauthor of Reclaiming Desire, Dr. Goldstein, “‘Everyone has a role within the relationship and as long as there’s a greater good, it’s not a question about whether its his money or her money. It’s their money. Your paycheck and your career are not the value of your worth,’”(9 Ways to Keep Your Marriage Healthy at Any Age).

• Next, always stay active, especially as you age.

• Many American couples tend to stop exercising regularly after they have children, but this can be extremely detrimental to your health.

• Finding new, innovative ways to stay active as a couple is a great way to strengthen your relationship with your spouse, along with making sure you stay healthy.

• Sports like golf, tennis, and hiking are ones you can enjoy throughout the years together.

• Lastly, always make sure to have your own social lives so you can talk to your friends when issues arise.

• According to Health.com’s interview with psychologist Dr. Robbins, “‘Many couples live very privately and discuss these issues with the shades down, but relationship issues like this can often benefit from hearing how people that you trust dealt with a similar situation,’” (9 Ways to Keep Your Marriage Healthy at Any Age).

• So, don’t be afraid to talk it out with a friend when you need to, just make sure you are always respectful of your spouse, because it’s easy to say things you don’t mean when you’re in the heat of the moment.

• For more information on how to maintain a happy marriage, please read Health.com’s article here .