Tip #1: Communication. Yes, this one seems pretty obvious, but it is extremely important in having a healthy marriage. By always keeping the lines of communication open, you are ensuring that you and your spouse are able to express your worries, concerns, and anxieties about your relationship. Communicating with one another about your relationship is a great basis for developing a strong bond.

Tip #2: Develop the Relationship. By taking a step back and viewing the "whole picture," you will be getting a better view of the relationship, and can start to see some areas that need to be strengthened. Sometimes it is hard to be objective, especially when it comes to something so emotional as a marriage relationship. I would recommend seeking help from an objective third party if you have any problems or issues that arise and you can not resolve them. Seeking help from a professional marriage counselor is a great way for newlyweds to jumpstart their relationship, and for couples who have been together for a while.

Tip #3: Be Honest. If you make a mistake, be the first to admit it to your spouse. By talking through any issues and being honest with one another, you are building on the relationship and learning about each other at the same time.

Tip #4: Trust. It is important that you trust your spouse and believe in them. If you can not trust your spouse, then you will not have a solid foundation to build on. Just like a house, a strong foundation must be built before you can expand on it and further develop the relationship.

Tip #5: Privacy. Privacy has a role in several aspects of your relationship with your spouse. Firstly, your relationship belongs to both of you and not to your friends, your family, or the world around you. Keep any problems and arguments between you and your spouse and don't seek relationship advice from the wrong sources. Your parents and your in-laws don't need to know about the arguments you have and will most likely not give you unbiased advice. Secondly, privacy should be given to your spouse during the time you spend doing things such as hobbies and other things that you each enjoy doing. There should be a lot of time that you spend together, but it is good to be alone sometimes also.

Tip #6: Set Goals for the Relationship. By working together setting goals and sharing your dreams and visions, you will get an idea of what each of you expect from the relationship and is a great time to share your expectations with your spouse. Make sure to Write It Down! Many people may set goals but never commit them to paper. By writing down your goals, something happens in your mind that starts you working toward those goals. Read them together every day, perhaps when you wake up and when you are going to bed.

Tip #7: Laughter. There is a time to laugh and a time to cry and a time for everything in between. It is said that laughter is the best medicine and can work wonders in a relationship. Have fun as you go through this journey together and always remember to smile and laugh!

These tips will give you a great start on your relationship and help you to grow together while keeping your sanity! Always look for ways to develop and improve your relationship together.