Marriages can be tough sometimes, and many couples experience a time when their relationship teeters on the brink of breaking. However, by putting in the right effort, it is possible to pull through the difficulties and come out stronger. Here are couples sharing their stories and strategies on how they managed to save their marriages from breaking apart. Read on to know more:
1. Open and honest communication
Jyoti and Keshav had been married for seven years when they hit a rough patch. Arguments became more frequent, and they felt like they were drifting apart. Realizing that something needed to change, they decided to communicate openly and honestly. They scheduled weekly “talk nights” where they could openly discuss their feelings, concerns, and hopes without judgment. "Initially, it was challenging, but gradually, the time spent together helped us understand each other better. We learned to listen actively and speak constructively. This brought us closer and rekindle out bond," they told us.
2. They chose to seek professional help
After 10 years of marriage, Deepak and Pooja found themselves at the edge of divorce. They simply could not seem to be able to work out their differences. That's when they thought of seeking professional help. They began attending marriage counseling with a counselor who assisted them with techniques in communicating and resolving their differences. "The therapist assisted us in finding issues we hadn't dealt with and this helped us rebuild our trust. It was through constant sessions and a commitment to resolve our marriage that we finally saved our marriage," Deepak and Pooja said.
3. Giving each other quality time and spending time together
Shruti and Raman realized that their busy schedules were taking a toll on their marriage. They were always preoccupied with work and rarely spent quality time together. They were determined to make things right, and made a pact to prioritise their relationship. "That's when we made a pact to have regular date nights, weekend getaways, etc. Even simple daily routines like having breakfast and dinner together everyday helped us bond with each other again," Shruti said. They also started engaging in hobbies they both enjoyed, such as trekking and cooking. These activities helped them rediscover the joy of being together and strengthened their emotional bond. By making time for each other, they were able to revive their romance and build a stronger connection.
4. Practicing forgiveness and patience
It's often said that, when marriages last a lifetime it is when the two partners forgive each other again and again, and continue to work together as a team. And this is true in Teena and Manoj's story. The couple had issues that kept turning into arguments again and again, making them feel frustrated and sad. They learned that a sense of vengefulness was hurting the very relationship they were trying to create. They resolved to let go of the past as a means of healing. They knew that mistakes had to be acknowledged and apologized for to finally forgive each other. They also gave each other the space and time needed to change and grow. "This wasn't easy at first, but it helped me reflect and release the negative emotions that had been weighing me down. And Manoj did the same. Over time, we found that our relationship became more compassionate and understanding," Teena shared.
5. Setting common goals and values
After 15 years of marriage, a son, and thriving careers, Komal and Rajesh felt as if they were drifting apart. They felt that they had to work towards something in common so that they could strengthen their bond. And so, they sat down and discussed long-term goals and values and set visions for the future. They decided to focus on common goals such as saving for a family vacation, renovating their home, and supporting each other's careers. "Working towards these goals brought us closer back together," Rajesh shared.
