12 rules for a happy marriage …

While digging through some old training materials I’ve used with couples, I came across a list titled “12 rules for a happy marriage” someone had shared with me.

Some may have roots in biblical teachings, others are just good “common sense.” The word “never” is probably overused, just take it as a “strong emphasis,” and maybe swap the word “rules” for “suggestions.” I don’t know who is the original author of the list, but I thought I’d share it with you as something to consider:

1. Never both be angry at once.
2. Never yell at each other unless the house is on fire.
3. Yield to the wishes of the other as an exercise in self-control, if you can’t think of something better.
4. If you have a choice between making yourself or your mate look good, choose to make your mate look good.
5. If you feel you must criticize, do so lovingly.
6. Never bring up a mistake of the past.
7. Neglect the world rather than each other.
8. Never let the day end without saying at least one complimentary thing to your mate.
9. Never allow your mate to come home without an affectionate welcome.
10. Never go to bed mad.
11. As soon as you realize you’ve made a mistake, talk it out and ask sincerely for forgiveness.
12. The one wrong usually talks the most … listen!

Scotty