1. Learn your partners "love language"
There is a book called "The Five Love Languages: The Secret To Love That Lasts" by Gary Chapman. The book helps you find the best ways to communicate with your partner.
2. Ignore small annoyances
Don't let the little things bother you. Next time you find yourself annoyed by something small ask yourself "Is this worth fighting over? Am I overreacting?"
3. Don't be demanding
They're your partner, not your servant treat them as such.
4. Unreasonable expectations
Don't place unreasonable expectations on each other, we're only human and we're doing the best we can. Remember, the guys from the movies don't actually exist. Don't expect your partner to live up to fictional characters.
5. Realize how important your partner is
Your partner should be one of your top priorities. I'm not saying your whole life has to be about them, but if you're going to spend the rest of your life with them they should be playing a significant part in your life.
6. Open communication
Communication is often taken for granted, but it is so important. When you're in a conflict with your partner try to avoid accusing them and try having an open mature conversation.
7. Don't dwell on the shortcomings
8. Forgiveness
No relationship is perfect, you're going to hurt each other, but it's important not to hold grudges. It's inevitable that at some point you're going to get your feelings hurt, but you can't hold onto the small things or take them to heart.
9. It's a learning process
You can watch all the movies or read all the books you want, but you will never be prepared for every relationship. Every relationship is different and should be treated that way. You shouldn't go into a relationship with the same mindset as the last one you were in; you should go in with a blank slate so you and your partner can learn and grow together.
10. Most importantly, put God first
God should be your first priority. If your relationship with your partner gets in the way of your relationship with God then you need to re-evaluate your priorities. God shouldn't only be a part of your relationship on Sundays when you go to church, he should BE the relationship, every part of it. A relationship that exists for God will be the one that will last 50+ years.
