The Tennessee Department of Health reported 22,359 divorces in 2020 with 50,564 marriages. Divorce is an unfortunate reality for many couples.
However, couples may wonder if there are steps they can take to better prevent a divorce from happening.
Communication is key
Open, honest communication is the foundation of any successful marriage. Before marriage, couples should discuss their goals, values and expectations. Conversations about family, finances and lifestyle choices can help identify potential sources of conflict and facilitate understanding.
Pre-marital counseling
Seeking guidance from a trained counselor or therapist can be immensely beneficial. Pre-marital counseling offers a safe space to explore any concerns, learn effective communication skills and address underlying issues that might affect the relationship in the future.
Conflict resolution skills
Learning how to navigate disagreements and conflicts is important. Before marriage, couples should work on developing healthy conflict-resolution strategies. Understanding how to compromise, express feelings constructively and avoid destructive behaviors like yelling or withdrawing can significantly reduce the risk of divorce.
Financial transparency
Money matters are a common source of marital strife. Couples should be upfront about their financial situations, including income, debt and spending habits. Developing a joint financial plan and setting clear expectations about responsibilities can prevent conflicts down the road.
Shared goals and values
Couples should ensure that they share common goals and values. This includes their long-term visions, such as whether they want children, career aspirations and religious beliefs. Aligning these aspects can strengthen the marriage’s foundation.
Healthy independence
While marriage involves unity, it is essential for each partner to maintain a sense of independence and individuality. Encouraging each other’s personal growth and hobbies can enhance the relationship by fostering trust and respect.
Understanding roles and responsibilities
Discuss and establish roles and responsibilities within the marriage. This includes chores, childcare and other daily tasks. Clarifying these roles can prevent conflicts arising from unmet expectations.
Quality time
In the whirlwind of life, it is easy to neglect spending quality time together. Couples should prioritize spending time with each other to nurture their emotional connection and bond. Regular date nights and meaningful conversations can strengthen the relationship.
Adaptability
Life is unpredictable, and couples need to be able to adapt to changes and challenges. Before marriage, couples should discuss how they plan to handle major life events, such as job changes, relocations or unexpected crises.
Remember, marriage is a journey that requires effort, commitment and resilience. It is also important to understand that no marriage is without its challenges, and in some cases, there is no way to prevent a divorce.