When it comes to relationships, decisions regarding marriage, divorce, and remarriage are probably some of the biggest you’ll make in your lifetime. Although the saying goes “love conquers all”, sometimes things don’t always end up that way, so it’s important to think things through before saying “I do” once again. Thought the statistics are debated, stats still show that 50% of all marriages in the U.S. end in divorce, while 67% of second marriages end that way too.
With that said, it’s good to learn from past mistakes before tying the knot again. Here are four things you need to know before you get remarried:
Know how to handle conflict. If you’re getting remarried, you know the honeymoon certainly doesn’t last forever. Conflict and disagreements will arise, but knowing how to deal with them can make or break your relationship.
More importantly, knowing how the other person deals with conflict is key. While no one wants to argue, doing so before remarrying can give you insight into whether your partner fights fair. Does he or she run away from their problems or do they try to resolve them? If you see something you don’t like in this department, it may be a red flag not to walk down the aisle.
Know how to be a better partner. Nobody is perfect. Everyone can benefit from knowing how to be a better partner. Some psychologists advise that before you can be a better partner you need to be good to yourself. Another way you can become a better partner is to spend more quality time together. Also, being grateful for each other can help you become a better partner.
Know how to get along with your ex and their ex. If there are children involved on either end, it’s more important than ever that you can get along with your ex as well as your new spouse’s ex. While you all don’t have to be best friends, being civil and maintaining a decent relationship will help everyone. Some people even say they become better friends as an ex rather than as a married couple.
As far as getting along with your spouse’s ex, start off by just being nice. Although that may sound silly, it can make all the difference. Hopefully it’s reciprocated. Also, be sure to set boundaries so there’s no confusion where things stand.
Know how to leave the past in the past. Bring positive energy and a new outlook into your new marriage. Leave behind any problems you had in your previous marriage.
If your ex cheated on you, leave that baggage in the past. Start fresh with your new partner. Remember to only look ahead together, don’t look back!
