Tips for a long and happy marriage?

[Bookaholic73]

Myself and my fiancé were chatting last night about what’s important to us in a marriage.

Neither of us come from parents that stayed together, so I thought I’d ask you all!

What are your tips for a long and happy marriage?
Apart from not shagging other people, obviously

Aside from the importance of communication, being kind, respect et al

Definitely time alone. Doesn't matter what form that takes.

We've had separate hobbies that the other (not purposely) has zero interest in. Him fishing, me amateur dramatics. Also we've had separate weekends away with respective friends. We've each spent quality one to one time with our DS.

I think it's absolutely vital to appreciate that, alongside being in a family unit, we are still our own person. Individuals that happen to be in a LTR married or not. It also gives extra conversations. Can't do that if you're joined at the hip every day. That would drive me nuts.

Married for almost 20 years -

Do little things for each other
Be each other’s cheerleaders
Be a team
Have fun and laugh together
Lots of physical contact
Don’t be dependent on each other for social lives.
Have your own interests and give each other space.

Accepting and loving them for who they are, not who you think they could be one day, and them feeling the same about you.

'checking in', taking a bit of time to be kind and thoughtful nomatter what's going on in life.

Give them a little space when they need it, and take a little space when you need it.

Maintaining a good level of respect. Don't take each other for granted.