28. 20 Years of Marriage: Lessons Learned for a Thriving Relationship
Last week, I celebrated my 20th wedding anniversary, and in today's episode, I'm reflecting on the biggest lessons I've learned.
Two decades is a considerable portion of life to dedicate to someone, and my husband and I have learned and grown a great deal together.
We address the staggering reality of divorce statistics, including how my parents getting divorced when I was young shaped how I view commitment today.
Key Takeaways:
Choose your partner wisely and accept them for who they are.
Commitment is key; avoid threatening your relationship with thoughts of breaking up or divorce.
Communicate more than you think is necessary.
Address minor issues as they arise, rather than letting them escalate into bigger problems.
Treat your partner like your best friend, especially in front of others.
Focus on self-improvement first, as you're 50% responsible for the dynamics of your relationship.
Recognize that marriage is not 50/50—it's 100/100.
Seek professional help before you think of giving up on the marriage.
Prioritize fun and laughter to keep the enjoyment strong.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction: 20 Years of Marriage
01:11 The Beginning: How We Met
04:53 Marriage Realities: Statistics and Personal Experiences
08:31 Lessons Learned: Choosing Wisely
13:14 Commitment and Communication
22:39 Being a Best Friend and Fixing Yourself
31:23 Parenting and Planning for the Future
33:16 Seeking Help and Having Fun
37:34 Conclusion: Thriving in Marriage
Links:
Related Episodes:
19: Is It Time for Therapy? Understanding When to Reach Out for Help
9. Unlocking Happiness: How Gratitude Can Transform Your Life
