Why It's Tough to Tell If You're Happily Married

"Sharing the same values as your partner helps you to connect better The strongest indicator of marital bliss is being in a relationship with a partner who prioritizes the same things you do and is in the relationship because it feels meaningful and fulfilling - not for external reasons, such as financial stability or social expectations. Partners likely to benefit from this are those who share the same cultural or religious background, those who work in similar fields, and those with the same moral focus."

"What should you do if you and your partner aren't on the same page? Whether it's a weekly cooking class or an emphasis on time spent with the family, find common ground in the form of a new hobby or joint passion and make this a central point in your marriage. This can help refocus your attention on something that you both feel strongly about."

"Expressing your emotions helps both partners feel loved You may feel positive emotions towards your partner, but if you don't express your feelings to your partner, then those warm and fuzzy feelings you have inside of you won't get you very far. It's easy to get caught up in a cycle of complaints rather than compliments. Thank your partner for the small things, whether it is helping to unpack the groceries or telling them that they look particularly attractive one day."

Marriage quality fluctuates according to five main predictors: shared values, emotional expression, reaction regulation, evolving child-related roles, and age-related satisfaction changes. Couples who prioritize the same values and find shared meaning connect more deeply; adopting joint hobbies can create common ground when partners differ. Openly expressing positive feelings and thanking partners for small actions counters complaint cycles and fosters love. Pausing before reacting and maintaining calm and respect prevents escalations. As children grow, family routines and roles should change. Marital satisfaction often improves in later life as partners adjust and children become adults.

Read at Psychology Today