The relationship at the center of any marriage is one of the most important, challenging and pressured we will ever have. Strains on this relationship result from a variety of factors many of which we are often unaware of and often have little control over.
Marriages are complex relationships that do and must change over time, it is in this need for change that challenges often arise. It is the one relationship in which “taking a break” has significant consequences for families and children and as such needs more work than any of our others.
Marriage is a place where two people meet to live their lives and fulfill dreams. Very often, in building those dreams, they lose sight of who they are. Children, careers, mortgages, and life often distract couples from the core of what makes their marriage good and strong. In most cases, once people lose sight and understanding of who they are as individuals in the marriage, relationship problems begin to manifest. This can happen at any time, in the first or fiftieth year.
Marriage is often one of the most neglected relationships, the price of which is significant.
SUCCESSFUL MARRIAGES ARE ONES WHERE COUPLES
- Understand and embrace the dynamic nature of the relationship
- Do not lose themselves in the relationship, rather recognise that they are able to be both an individual and a partner
- Are able to redefine themselves and the relationship as its’ needs change
- Are mindful of the “source” of the relationship and invest time, energy and commitment in keeping the source strong
- Communicate effectively, honestly and openly, without fear