'The answer should be collaboration, not compromise': Marriage Hacks We Wish We Knew Sooner from Wise Women in Long Term Relationships

I went to a wedding two years ago and only just last week reconnected with the former bride and groom. No drama, we just live in different cities several hours away and are pretty busy just trying to manage the whole adulthood thing. Over cold coffees and an indulgent brunch spread, I asked them what it was like for them now, being married and all. And well, not surprisingly, they said that nothing much has changed. They'd been in a 5-year relationship before they actually tied the knot; they'd already spent half a decade living, traveling, and problem solving together, so the wedding and paperwork just felt like a symbolic courtesy to society.
In truth, what you will find below aren't necessarily marriage hacks. They are tips for people in long term relationships. Some of them are even viable advice for platonic and familial relationships, too. Whether you're genuinely seeking a new approach to your relationship, or you just want to feel good about having it all figured out already, scroll down to check out what all the hubbub is about.

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What's your marriage hack you wish you knew sooner?

via Crystal Sing from The Crystal Sing Collection

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My dad was huge on never going to bed angry; it honestly usually just resulted in everyone going to bed annoyed and resentful for being forced to come to a half-hearted resolution.
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This is a big one! Your life partner should also be a life friend.
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