The Bluebird of Happiness

Just one Internet search should convince you that communication is a necessary part of a healthy marriage (or any relationship, really). I have a degree in communications and I can’t seem to get it right!  

For some couples, brutal honesty works; others prefer to keep secrets. I know couples who constantly argue and that dynamic keeps their marriage fresh. The point is people communicate in a variety of ways.

So where do you turn if you need some communication pointers? There are plenty of marriage counselors, magazine articles and other married people with loads of advice/expertise/experience. But you already knew that, didn’t you?

Here are some tips from the experts:

The American Association of Matrimony Lawyers remind married couples that “no one wins an argument.” Compromise is key to settling arguments and disagreements in a respectful manner. Most of their tips involve resolving conflict. Keeping a positive attitude is the probably the most important suggestion on their list.

It’s vital to discuss the bad, but don’t leave out the good! Complimenting your spouse can go a long way in wedded bliss. Remember when you were dating? Remember all those butterflies from his compliment about your hair, or her compliment about your taste in music? Those kind words shouldn’t end after you’ve walked down the aisle! You can find more information about the positives of compliments at About.com.

Lastly, make time to talk with your spouse. Once again, think about when you were dating; I remember never running out of things to talk about. I haven’t been married long, but my husband and I dated for two years. While sometimes you might feel that you’ve run out of things to say, About.com has a list of activities that could get the conversational ball rolling. 

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If you have a suggestion for a topic, please leave a comment - I’d be glad to write about it! 

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