You may have been told one or two things about keeping your marriage happy – because everybody seems to have some advice. However, people often don’t realize that many beliefs about what it takes to make a marriage work are misconceptions.
Here’s what you should know:
1. Myth: You should instinctively know your spouse
Many couples can develop some understanding of what each other is thinking and feeling, but there may be no guarantee that you and your spouse will always be in sync. People have many thoughts in a short time, and your spouse’s thoughts may throw you off guard. Communication is a process.
2. Myth: Having kids will fix your marriage
When marriages fall apart, people may try introducing a child into their marriage as a way to fix issues and spice up their marriage. You and your spouse may only worsen problems and subject a child to a dysfunctional relationship.
3. Myth: You and your spouse should be similar
People often find their spouse holds some similar interests, but that may not make or break a relationship. It is often good that spouses aren’t too similar and have their own identities. When they don’t, that can lead to boredom and discontentment.
4. Myth: Your spouses should have similar religious beliefs
Many people believe that their spouses should have similar religious beliefs. Couples may talk and disagree about their religious beliefs, but that shouldn’t hold back a marriage. Disagreement can happen in marriages and may be beneficial.
5. Myth: Once you’re married, you have to always stay married
Many relationships can fall apart after marriage. Religious or cultural beliefs have often pushed people away from the idea of divorce. You don’t have to stay in an unhappy marriage – seeking legal counsel may help provide you with options when deciding what to do.