Relationship tips: 7 simple ways to strengthen your bond and have a happy marriage

Marriages may be made in heaven but they take a lot of work to maintain here on earth. Studies show that communication and self-disclosure help build intimacy in marital relationships. In short, investing time in deeper conversations with your spouse or loved one can make your bond stronger.

Being a safe space for your partner, and actively listening without judgment can foster deeper understanding and connection between partners.

Prioritising one another even in the daily hustle and bustle of life, finding moments to appreciate the other’s efforts and being supporting of each other’s goals can deepen your emotional intimacy and boost their confidence.

Here are seven strategies that can enhance your marriage and cultivate a deeper bond with your partner.

• Communicate openly and honestly

Communication is the foundation of any successful marriage. It’s essential to express your feelings, thoughts, and concerns without the fear of judgment. Your partner and you should offer a safe space to talk and share. Making time for open and honest conversations can foster a deeper understanding between partners. According to a study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family, couples who engage in regular, open communication report higher satisfaction in their relationships.

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• Show appreciation regularly

In the everyday of life, it’s easy to take your partner for granted. Just showing appreciation can go a long way in making your partner feel valued and loved. Research from the Gottman Institute emphasises that expressing gratitude by simple gestures like saying "thank you" or acknowledging the little things can strengthen emotional connections and promote marital satisfaction.

• Schedule quality time together

If you and your partner are mostly spending days talking logistics, taking care of everyday chores, scheduling playdates for the kids, you may find yourselves stuck in your daily patterns. It is crucial to prioritise time for each other to rekindle the romance and strengthen your connection. Scheduling time together, even if is going out for a cup of coffee on the weekend to your favourite cafe, or spending a lazy day in bed, will make your connection grow stronger. A study from Psychology Today found that couples who engage in shared activities report higher levels of satisfaction in their relationships.

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• Practice active listening

Communicating is incomplete without comprehension. Oftentimes, we find ourselves waiting for the other person to finish talking so that we can put our point forward. When your partner shares something, make an effort to listen actively. This means not only hearing their words but also understanding the emotions behind them. Sometimes they are just looking to vent rather than asking for you to solve something. Take a moment to listen without judgment or wanting to revolve their problem. According to a report by the Harvard Business Review, couples who practice active listening are better equipped to resolve conflicts and deepen their emotional intimacy.

• Be supportive of each other’s goals

Support your partner's dreams and aspirations, whether they’re personal or professional. Encouragement can boost their confidence and reinforce the sense that you’re a team. According to a study in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, mutual support significantly contributes to relationship satisfaction and stability.

• Resolve conflicts constructively

Disagreements are a natural part of any relationship, but how you handle them can make all the difference. Focus on resolving conflicts calmly and constructively, without resorting to blame or criticism. The Gottman Institute advises using “I” statements to express your feelings rather than “you” statements that can sound accusatory. It’s not necessary that you and your partner agree on everything, but if you are willing to work towards resolving the conflicts, even if it means living with the differences of opinions, there is a way forward.

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• Embrace change together

As individuals grow and evolve, so do relationships. Embrace the changes that come with life and adapt together. Regularly check in with each other about your needs and feelings, which can help both partners feel more connected. A study published in the International Journal of Psychology emphasises that adaptability is key to long-term relationship satisfaction.

Remember that a happy marriage requires ongoing effort and commitment, but the rewards are well worth it.