Marriage Success

Most people enter into marriage with a degree of commitment, believing their marriage will last forever. Yet 50% or more of all marriages are ending. Researchers are studying successful marriages hoping to find some answers.

My good colleague Susan Mitchell reports that the following qualities and characteristics are usually found in strong successful marriages:

• Commitment - Their marriage is their first priority. They are determined to work through difficult times, and committed to the other’s welfare and happiness.

• Sense of Humor and Ability to Play - Partners have the ability to laugh at themselves and sometimes at difficult situations. They laugh together often and recognize the importance of playfulness within the marriage.

• Expressed appreciation - Couples in successful marriages openly and regularly express appreciation with saying thank you.

Source: Mitchell, S. (1996, July). Qualities of a healthy, happy marriage. UE Person to Person.