There’s a big misconception about strong marriages. Many think it’s all about grand gestures and romantic surprises. But let me tell you this – the strength of your marriage is more likely found in the everyday moments and subtle signs that show you’re a solid team.
If you can relate to these 10 signs I’m about to share, chances are, your marriage is stronger than you might think.
As the founder of Love Connection blog and a relationship expert, I’ve seen it all. I know that every relationship has its unique nuances and complexities.
So, from my years of experience, let me guide you through these signs. They’re not about extravagant trips or expensive gifts, but the small and consistent actions that build a strong and resilient marriage.
And remember, each sign doesn’t necessarily have to be a part of your daily life. Every couple is different. But if you can identify with most of them, well… your marriage may be rock solid without you even realizing it.
1) Seamless communication
The foundation of any strong relationship is communication. But in a marriage, it goes beyond just talking about your day. It’s about being able to discuss anything, from your deepest fears to your wildest dreams, and even the most mundane details of your life.
It’s when you can tell your partner that you’re scared, excited, or overwhelmed without fear of judgment or rejection. It’s when you can discuss sensitive topics like finances or family issues without it turning into a heated argument.
Does this sound familiar? If so, you’re more than on the right track. This level of open and honest communication signifies a deep level of trust and understanding – two key ingredients for a strong marriage.
Remember, seamless communication doesn’t mean you never argue. It means you’re able to resolve disagreements in a respectful manner, where both parties feel heard and understood. If this is your normal, then your marriage is stronger than you might think.
2) Comfortable silence
Now this may seem a bit counterintuitive. After all, I just talked about the importance of communication, right? But hear me out.
In a strong marriage, you don’t always have to fill the silence. There’s a level of comfort in merely being in each other’s presence without the need for constant chatter.
Let me paint a picture. You’re both sitting in the living room, engrossed in your own books or hobbies, with no conversation going on. Yet, there’s no awkwardness or tension. On the contrary, there’s a sense of calm and contentment.
This sign of comfortable silence shows that you are secure in your relationship. You don’t feel the need to keep up constant chatter to validate your connection. Instead, you appreciate the serene moments when you can just be together, quietly.
If this resonates with you, then give yourself a pat on the back. It’s a clear sign that your marriage is stronger than you realize.
3) Healthy independence
Independence in a marriage? Yes, you heard that right.
One of the most significant indicators of a strong marriage is when both partners can maintain their individuality while still being a part of a team. It means you have your own interests, hobbies, and friends outside the relationship and that’s perfectly okay.
In fact, I address this extensively in my book Breaking The Attachment: How To Overcome Codependency in Your Relationship. It’s about striking the right balance between togetherness and individuality.
If you’re able to pursue your passions and interests without feeling guilty or facing resentment from your partner, you’re doing something right. Similarly, if you’re supportive of your partner’s individual pursuits, that’s another point in your favor.
So if you find yourself nodding along to this, it’s another great sign. Your marriage is not just strong; it’s healthy and balanced too.
4) Shared laughter
There’s a great quote by Audrey Hepburn that says, “I love people who make me laugh. I honestly think it’s the thing I like most, to laugh. It cures a multitude of ills.” I can’t agree more with this.
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Shared laughter is a powerful bonding agent in any relationship, especially a marriage. It’s not just about cracking jokes or watching funny movies together, though that certainly helps. It’s about finding humor in everyday situations and sometimes, even in the face of adversities.
Do you and your partner often find yourselves laughing together at silly things? Maybe it’s an inside joke that only the two of you understand, or perhaps it’s just the way you both find humor in the absurdity of life.
If laughter is a common element in your relationship, then you’re doing more than just strengthening your marriage. You’re also creating a reservoir of joy and positivity that can help you get through tough times.
So give yourself some credit; your marriage is stronger than you may think!
5) Mutual respect
The spice that keeps any relationship flavorful, let alone a marriage, is mutual respect. It’s one of those things that seems obvious, but you’d be surprised how many couples overlook it.
In my years as a relationship expert, I’ve learned that respect is not just about treating your partner well. It’s about valuing them for who they are – their thoughts, feelings, desires, and even their quirks.
Do you appreciate your partner’s opinions even when they differ from yours? Do you value their dreams and ambitions as much as your own? Do you honor their boundaries and give them space when needed?
If your answer is a resounding ‘yes’, then take a moment to celebrate. You’re nurturing one of the most important aspects of a healthy and strong marriage – respect. This, my dear readers, is no small feat.
6) Shared values
You and your partner might come from different backgrounds, have different personalities, and even distinct interests. But what keeps you together are the shared values – the fundamental beliefs and principles that you both agree upon.
These could be about anything – your perspectives on family, finances, lifestyle, or personal growth. When you share the same core values, navigating through life becomes a joint venture rather than a tug of war.
Now, if you’re sitting there thinking, “That sounds like us!”, then let me assure you – your marriage is stronger than most.
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7) Weathering the storms together
Let’s get real for a moment. Life isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. It throws curveballs, and sometimes, they hit hard. But what truly signifies the strength of your marriage is how you weather these storms together.
It’s when things go wrong, and instead of pointing fingers or pulling apart, you pull together and work as a team. You support each other, share the burden, and face the challenge united.
Maybe it was a financial crisis, a health scare, or a family issue. It could even be a personal struggle with stress or anxiety. If you’ve faced such storms together and come out stronger on the other side, that’s proof of the strength of your bond.
Remember, it’s easy to love when everything is perfect. But if you can still love and support each other when things are far from perfect, that’s a marriage stronger than you realize.
Embracing your strengths
As we wrap up our exploration of the signs of a strong marriage, it’s important to take a moment to appreciate the journey. Recognizing these signs in your relationship doesn’t just affirm your marital strength; it also gives you a glimpse into the deep-rooted love and companionship you share.
It’s about understanding that every marriage, including yours, is unique. It has its own rhythm, its own challenges, and its own victories. And as long as you’re growing together, supporting each other, and loving each other through thick and thin, you’re on the right track.
Now, I want to leave you with something a little different. It’s a video by Justin Brown on the complexities of finding a life partner. He shares his personal experiences and insightful lessons learned along the way that tie in beautifully with what we’ve been discussing here.
Remember, recognizing your strengths and working on your weaknesses is a continuous process. So take this journey one step at a time and keep reminding yourself that your marriage is stronger than you realize.
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