(ThySistas.com) So, you found the man, and lived happily ever after. Or not. Sometimes, happily ever after doesn’t last as long as we imagine. In all the movies, the action stops there. We don’t see the aftermath. That’s why it can be hard to accept when things don’t stay good forever. If any sistas out there are struggling in their marriage, know that you aren’t alone. Marriage is a hard road and bumps can throw you off track. Even so, it’s important not to give up. If you’re on shaky ground, it shouldn’t be too late to pull things back. All you need to know is how to go about it. Here are a few ideas of what you can do.
ADDRESS THE PROBLEMS
The key to any relationship is communication. If something is niggling you, it’s crucial you address the problem. Leaving issues
unspoken will lead to resentment. It’s often that resentment, not the problem itself, that can lead a marriage to end. It’s normal, every year or so, to need a discussion about all the things that are annoying you both. How else can you navigate the process of sharing your lives? Little niggles are bound to crop up! Keeping the lines of communication open is the best way to move forward. Make sure to approach issues in the right way. Make a meal and use that as a time to talk. Don’t accuse, just express your feelings in a calm and sensible manner. When you’re done, allow your man time to speak, too!
DECIDE A PLAN OF ACTION
After you’ve spoken about the issues, it’s time to decide on a plan of action. Sometimes, a slight change of behavior might be necessary. Sometimes, the problem will be a little larger. It’s important you come to a decision about how you’ll move forward together. Remember, the conversation is an open one. This isn’t a case of one of you dictating how things will be. Marriage is all about equality! Situations like this may not be what you pictured when he gave you that engagement ring, but you have to face them anyway! If the problem is that you haven’t been spending enough time together, agree to a date night once a month. If one of you feels they’ve been doing more housework, come up with a chore rota. Most problems have simple solutions once you get them out in the open!
SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP
Sometimes, you’ll find things don’t improve, even after your conversation. If that’s the case, you may need to seek professional help to work out your relationship troubles. There’s nothing wrong with that. Don’t think you’re in real trouble because you’re seeking help. The fact that both of you are willing to put in that level of effort to make your marriage work is a good thing. It’d be more worrying if you let the problems go unchecked. Getting help from someone who knows what they’re doing should see you back on track in no time!
Staff Writer; Annette Baker