01/12/2022
Best Pieces of Marriage Advice for Newlyweds
Marriage Counseling Racheal Tasker
Newlyweds go right from the highs of the wedding and honeymoon into a crash course on reality in the married world. Psychotherapist Christina Steinorth believes it is all too easy for newly married couples to make mistakes as they begin to navigate the rough waters of family, shared finances, and day-to-day life. This guide contains practical advice for newlyweds that just might help you avoid some of the most common pitfalls.
1. Never Go to Bed Angry
angry-couple-in-bed
Even in the happiest of marriages, arguments are inevitable. Learn to address any issues that arise head-on instead of holding them in. For centuries, people have been giving advice for newlyweds that they should settle any conflicts before going to bed so that each party can wake up with a renewed sense of marital bliss.
2. Deal with Your Own Family
Whether your family meddles or keeps to themselves, thereâs always the chance that theyâll ruffle your spouseâs feathers. When this happens, take it upon yourself to talk to your family and, if necessary, ask them to apologize to your partner. This takes a huge burden off of your spouse while keeping the family unit whole.
3. Keep It Simple
After the vows, many young couplesâespecially first-timersâare tempted to jump into a new life with both feet. This is often a mistake. Remember that youâve just gotten married. More disruption, such as moving, changing jobs, or joining your spouseâs church, will only add stress. Try waiting until six months after the ceremony before making any other large changes to your lives.
4. Watch Your Budget
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A researcher from Utah State University found that couples who argue about finances at least once each week have a 30 percent higher chance of eventually divorcing than those who argue about money less frequently. As a new couple, youâll be amazed at how fast your money goes. Try to track every penny, hire a financial planner if it helps, and remember that asking in-laws for loans is a quick way to start fights between you.
5. Donât Quit Your Day Jobs
Along with careful budgeting for expenses, it helps if you both work. Not only are two incomes better than one but each of you will feel more invested in your combined financial success if youâre both kicking into the pot.
6. Make Big Plans
Youâve only got one life, and youâve promised to spend it together. Why not plan big? One thing that holds newlyweds together is shared dreams. If one of you wants to be a world-renowned artist and the other wants to be a brain surgeon, talk it over. Maybe together you can make it, but youâll have to start planning now.
7. Make Realistic Plans
While youâre both dreaming big together, remember that the rent is still due on the first of the month. Make use of each otherâs support, ideas, and hard work to put one foot in front of the other. Setting your sights on a $1 per hour raise isnât wildly romantic, but it will help keep the wolf away and do more for the stability of your relationship than all the unrealized dreams youâve ever had.