Even couples in healthy relationships experience conflict and dissatisfaction. However, there are things you can do to improve your relationship. Here, learn about four ways to increase your satisfaction with your marriage.
Remember to Show Affection
Physical affection can improve your relationship. A 2003 study in the American Journal of Family Therapy found that couples feel more loved and understood when given physical affection. The study also found that various forms of physical affection, including back rubs, cuddling, kissing, and hugging were associated with increased relationship satisfaction. Remember to show some affection; it could work wonders for your marriage!
Split the Chores Fairly
In more traditional families, women may complete more of the household chores; however, this can lead to unhappiness. Researchers for a 2003 edition of the Journal of Family Issues found that an unequal division of household chores was linked to marital dissatisfaction. In addition, a study in a 2001 edition of the Journal of Marriage & Family found that women who performed more hours of housework were less satisfied with their marriages. Increase your own satisfaction by ensuring that each of you contributes equally to housework. In 2007, a study in the American Journal of Public Health found that wives were more satisfied with their marriages when husbands were more involved with the housework.
Get Your Finances in Order
Finances are an important part of relationship satisfaction. In fact, the results of a 2000 study in the journal Financial Counseling and Planning found that financial factors predict 15% of marital satisfaction. In addition, couples with greater debt are more likely to divorce, according to a 2011 edition of the Journal of Family and Economic Issues. Fortunately, getting your finances in order can improve your relationship and decrease your risk of divorce. Researchers for a 2007 edition of the Family and Consumer Sciences Research Journal found that those with a high level of financial satisfaction were less likely to consider divorce. Protect your marriage by creating a budget and committing to shared financial goals.
Make Time for Exercise
Exercise can improve your body image, and in turn, your marriage satisfaction. A 2006 study in Psychology and Health found that exercise was linked to a more positive body image. This is important, as researchers for a 2010 edition of the Journal of Family Psychology found that wives who perceived themselves to be more sexually attractive were more satisfied with their marriages. Their husbands were more satisfied as well.
Exercise to improve your body image, and your marriage may improve as well. You can also improve your marriage by keeping your finances in order, splitting chores fairly, and taking the time to shower your partner with affection.
