When you ask someone about their life goals, they generally talk about getting an education, buying a house, and then getting married and settling down. Most people envision marrying the person they love and going on to live a happy and healthy life. But sometimes, marriages break and there’s not much anyone can do about when the spark dies.
According to National Center for Health Statistics, between 2017 to 2019 marriage rates have taken a serious hit, decreasing from 6.9 to 6.1 marriages for every 1000 people. This is the lowest rate recorded so far but what is the reason behind this decline?
However, if you’re looking to be married to your significant other for a long time, we’ll be highlighting the most important characteristics of long-term relationships.
These are the three elements that ensure a long-term union:
Staying Committed
Commitment is not about sticking with your partner despite all the trouble they put you through. Commitment is standing headstrong and facing all the ups and downs of life together. Staying committed means that you will support your partner through all the highs and lows, through thick and thin, etc.
Love
When two people get together, things seem magical and almost straight out of a fairytale. This is often referred to as “the honeymoon phase”. After some time, however, the rose-colored glasses come off and the magic fades away.
This happens when one or both partners no longer put in the effort to keep the relationship going strong. Loving your partner means that you see their flaws and shortcomings, yet you still admire them just the way they are.
Respect
This key element may be the most important one yet. You can have a partner who is committed and loves you dearly but, if they do not respect you or your feelings then your marriage might not last. When you respect your partner’s wishes, you listen to what they have to say and keep their sentiment in consideration.
These three core elements define your marriage and can either break it or make it. But before you begin to ponder, always remember that it takes two to tango. Marriages only last when there is an effort from both ends.