17 Marriage Lessons from 17 years of Marriage

Wow, I’ve done some time! 17 years of marriage seems a bit unreal. And like everyone always says… life goes by sooo fast! In honor of 17 years I have prepared 17 one liners to help build your marriage. Which one resonates with you most? Please let me know in the comments. Is there one you would like me to expand on?

Here to serve! -Coach SG

1. Frequently ask your spouse what it looks like to love and support them better.
2. Be thankful in every season as there is something to learn and good still to find. You won’t get that season back.
3. Find time to grow in your relationship with God and pray with your spouse. Only God can fulfill your deepest needs. It’s not your spouse's job to “complete you.” 
4. Your relationship is yours, don’t compare it to others. You don’t see their full picture.
5. Refrain from ideals of perfection in marriage. We are imperfect people so require the giving and receiving of forgiveness and grace… constantly.
6. The more you grow personally, and practice self care, the more fulfilled you will be in your marriage.
7. Do not be easily offended. “Be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.” (James 1:19) 
8. Celebrate your relationship. Take pictures and pause to take in special moments so you can look back on them and remember. 
9. Avoid putting your kids before your marriage. 
10. Invest in your lifetime commitment! Learn more about marriage through podcasts, books, counseling, seminars, retreats, etc. Don’t wait for a crisis to start investing in your marriage.
11. Be genuinely thankful for what you have and where you are. Look for the good. This will always be a thing.
12. Grow with your spouse year by year by sharing personal and collective dreams and goals together and checking in on those dreams and goals. 
13. Say you’re sorry, take ownership and change your actions.
14. Slow down in the midst of the busyness of life and make time to connect and embrace daily.
15. Feelings come and go. When you don’t feel butterflies, it's OK. Remember your commitment and continue to love anyways.
16. Don’t forget  you’re on the same team. Look at the bigger picture rather than getting caught up in argumentative moments. Don’t win the argument at the cost of the relationship.
17. Marriage is an adventure with your partner in life! Nourish your friendship, get out of your comfort zones and have FUN!