The Top 3 Sources of Stress in Marriage

If only being married meant living happily ever after, then every single person I know would be hitched. But the truth is, there really is no such thing as a fairy tale marriage. It really takes a lot of work, and when you said “for better or for worse,” it really meant being ready to take on any challenge that may come your way.

As committed as you may be to upholding the integrity of your marriage, the life-changing realities that come with it can put a strain on your relationship. With this in mind, we list some of the factors that can contribute to a rocky marriage, and advice on how to keep your marriage on track.


1. The in-laws
It’s not always realistic to put your in-laws in a bad light, just like how they’re typically depicted on Philippine films and TV shows. They’re not always the antagonizing people in your life as a couple. In fact, in-laws more than often really do guide you and support you along the way.

The key is establishing your identity and life plan as a couple while being gracious enough to recognize their role in your marriage. Strike a balance by being open to their advice and help while not compromising your own plans. Owning your own home is one of the steps you can take to achieve this.

Click here to read more.

[previous|page|next]

2. Money problems
The pressure of providing for your family, with children to feed, tuition fees to pay and other expenses can cause a great amount of stress on you and your spouse. Not all couples are blessed with sufficient resources, and making ends meet can create an extraordinary amount of tension between you and your partner.

The number one money mistake that couples make is keeping money matters to themselves. Sit down together and take note of your expenses, both as individuals and as a couple. Mark those that are unnecessary (Do you really need to have that daily frappe fix? Do you really need to bring the car to work every day?) and agree on what you can sacrifice not buying.

Be transparent about your financial choices. You have to be a team when it comes to money issues.

Take the frugal alternative, as much as possible. There are many ways to save on household expenses and more affordable items you can opt for when in the supermarket or at the mall. Get creative. Sell old items. Have a garage sale. Scrimping doesn’t have to be boring!


3. Not much going on in the love and fireworks department
With the amount of pressure you’re constantly dealing with in your marriage, sex and intimacy can be one of the first on the chopping block. You might be too tired after work, not in the mood because of stress, or there’s simply no time with everything you have to do.

Misunderstandings and arguments, of course, are unavoidable. But treat these as avenues for opening up communication with your partner, rather than creating problems in your relationship. Use these instances as a way to resolve issues and finding a common ground on which you can compromise. Learn the art of fighting and making up.

If you want to spice up your relationship again, there are many ways to get your spouse to romance you. Just be sensitive to the other person’s needs and you’ll discover ways to grow an even more amazing marriage.



Photo courtesy of HBO