When we get married, the prospect of separation or divorce is the last thing on our minds and most of us imagine that the marriage we are entering into will be one that lasts forever. However, the stresses of life can take their toll on the best of us, and one of the firs things to suffer is often the relationship. Once your marriage starts its journey down the slippery slope to separation, it is important to take some steps with a view to saving your marital relationship. And if both parties are willing to put dedication and commitment into saving a marital relationship there are resources available and steps that can be taken.

Learn to enjoy one another’s company again: There was clearly a time when you did enjoy one another’s company, as otherwise it is unlikely that you would have married and pledged to spend the rest of your natural lives together. Take the time to sit down and think of things that you both enjoy doing, whether it’s going to the opera, going out to a club or simply watching movies together. Then take some quality time to do these things together. This can go a long way towards saving a marital relationship.

Inject some romance into the marriage: It’s amazing how much of an impact a little romance can have, and if you want to save a marital relationship a little romance can go a long way. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate or expensive. Sure, if you can afford it then why not whisk your partner off to Paris for a few days? But you could also cook intimate meals at home with candlelight, wine and soft music; go out for romantic meals at your favorite restaurant; or simply take a stroll together at a local beauty spot.

Communicate: Lack of communication is one of the main culprits of marriage problems, and all too often a couple that started out married life in one another’s pockets simply drift apart until they are barely even talking to one another. Effective communication is part and parcel of saving a marital relationship. It can be difficult if both partners are working full time and there are kids to look after, but take the time to sit down together each day and talk. You could discuss your day, make plans for a weekend away, chat about the latest celebrity gossip – anything that involves actually spending some quality time to talk to one another.

Seek help: If you are in trouble with your marriage, you should never feel embarrassed about seeking help. There are counselling services out there that are especially designed for people that are interested in saving a marital relationship. Many coupled have saved their marriages through effective counselling, and if you feel that this method could help you and your partner to get back on track it is definitely an avenue worth exploring.