{"id":3328,"date":"2021-08-27T09:11:53","date_gmt":"2021-08-27T09:11:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.getstoryshots.com\/?page_id=3328"},"modified":"2024-10-05T10:47:30","modified_gmt":"2024-10-05T10:47:30","slug":"the-seven-principles-for-making-marriage-work-summary","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.getstoryshots.com\/ar\/books\/the-seven-principles-for-making-marriage-work-summary\/","title":{"rendered":"\u0627\u0644\u0645\u0628\u0627\u062f\u0626 \u0627\u0644\u0633\u0628\u0639\u0629 \u0644\u0625\u0646\u062c\u0627\u062d \u0627\u0644\u0632\u0648\u0627\u062c \u0645\u0644\u062e\u0635 \u0648\u062a\u062d\u0644\u064a\u0644 \u0627\u0644\u0645\u0628\u0627\u062f\u0626 \u0627\u0644\u0633\u0628\u0639\u0629 \u0644\u0625\u0646\u062c\u0627\u062d \u0627\u0644\u0632\u0648\u0627\u062c"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Practical Guide from the Country&#8217;s Foremost Relationship Expert<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><br>The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work is a best-selling relationship book that offers research-based strategies to strengthen your marriage and deepen your connection\u2014are you ready to unlock the secrets to lasting love? \u2764\ufe0f<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-audio\"><audio controls src=\"https:\/\/www.getstoryshots.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/The-Seven-Principles-for-Making-Marriage-Work-summary-audiobook.mp3\"><\/audio><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Life gets busy. Has&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/make-marriage-work\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work<\/a>&nbsp;been gathering dust on your bookshelf? Instead, pick up the key ideas now. We\u2019re scratching the surface here. If you don\u2019t already have the book, order the&nbsp;book&nbsp;or get the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/make-marriage-work\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">audiobook for free<\/a>&nbsp;to learn the juicy details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">John Gottman\u2019s Perspective<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-drop-cap\"><a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/john-gottman\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">John M. Gottman<\/a> is an American psychological researcher and clinician who did extensive work over four decades on divorce prediction and marital stability. He is also an award-winning speaker, author and professor emeritus in psychology. Gottman is the founder and director of the Seattle Marital and Family Institute and a professor of psychology at the University of Washington. His previous books include The Heart of Parenting and Why Marriages Succeed or Fail.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Introduction<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/7-work-free-audiobook\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work<\/a> is based on the findings that Gottman obtained from his Love Lab. Through developing this lab, he discovered he could predict with 91% accuracy which marriages will succeed and which will fail. He could predict this after watching how couples spoke and related. Sometimes, he could accurately predict their success within 5 minutes. In this book, these findings are condensed into seven principles that can guide you toward a harmonious and long-lasting relationship. The book also attempts to debunk numerous myths about marriages and why they fail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Truth About Happy Marriages<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The first chapter of the book introduces John Gottman\u2019s concept of a \u201cLove Lab.\u201d The lab helped Gottman decipher between marriages that will succeed and those that will fail. On top of this, the lab also highlighted that couples therapy would not work in the long term. The reason for couples therapy being ineffective is that the essential ingredients are not tapped into. For example, in emotionally intelligent marriages, a dynamic is established where negative thoughts and feelings are kept from overwhelming the positive ones. Couples therapy does not aim to improve emotional intelligence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Predict Divorce<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When the studied couples were in Gottman\u2019s \u201cLove Lab,\u201d he asked them to resolve a conflict. Findings showed it was not whether they argued but how they argued that made the difference. Gottman offers four signs within arguments that are possible signs of potential relational problems\/divorce. He calls these four signs the four horsemen of the apocalypse:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Criticism &#8211; Criticism is usually the first of the horsemen to appear within a marriage. Complaints will inevitably arise and mistakes will happen like forgotten anniversaries or arguments about chores. That said, once these mistakes become criticisms, the beginnings of a doomed marriage start to appear. For instance, it\u2019s normal to complain about your partner for forgetting to do the dishes. But that complaint turns to criticism when you find yourself saying things like, \u201cYou forgot to do the dishes again? You\u2019re so lazy!\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contempt &#8211; If criticism is left untreated, it can turn into contempt. Contempt involves mocking behavior and expressions of disgust designed to make your spouse feel useless or small.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Defensiveness &#8211; If your partner is consistently showing you contempt, defensiveness can arise. If a criticizing partner scoffs at your spending habits, you may reply, \u201cI don\u2019t spend that much! I know many people who spend more than I do.\u201d This defensiveness won\u2019t solve any problems and will eventually turn into the fourth horseman.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stonewalling &#8211; Stonewalling is when a partner has received so much criticism and contempt that they detach themselves from the conversation. Subsequently, they respond with phrases like \u201cuh-huh\u201d or \u201csure.\u201d They will even avoid face-to-face interaction to avoid their partner.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>You should be looking out for these signs and seeking proper help if you notice them. These horsemen may be signs that your marriage is struggling, but marriages that seem doomed can still be revived.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Seven Principles For Making Marriage Work<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Principle One \u2013 Enhance Your Love Map<\/h3>\n\n\n\t\t<div class=\"ss-ctt-wrapper ss-ctt-style-4\" data-ss-post-id=\"3328\" data-nonce=\"4c8e04ecd8\">\n\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?text=%E2%80%9CLike+the+Second+Law+of+Thermodynamics%2C+which+says+that+in+closed+energy+systems+things+tend+to+run+down+and+get+less+orderly%2C+the+same+seems+to+be+true+of+closed+relationships+like+marriages.+My+guess+is+that+if+you+do+nothing+to+make+things+get+better+in+your+marriage+but+do+not+do+anything+wrong%2C+the+marriage+will+still+tend+to+get+worse+over+time.+To+maintain+a+balanced+emotional+ecology+you+need+to+make+an+effort%E2%80%94think+about+your+spouse+during+the+day%2C+think+about+how+to+make+a+good+thing+even+better%2C+and+act.%E2%80%9D+-+John+Gottman&#038;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.getstoryshots.com%2Far%2Fwp-json%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fposts%2F3328&#038;via=storyshots&#038;related=storyshots\" class=\"ss-ctt-tweet\" data-title=\"Click to Tweet\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">\u201cLike the Second Law of Thermodynamics, which says that in closed energy systems things tend to run down and get less orderly, the same seems to be true of closed relationships like marriages. My guess is that if you do nothing to make things get better in your marriage but do not do anything wrong, the marriage will still tend to get worse over time. To maintain a balanced emotional ecology you need to make an effort\u2014think about your spouse during the day, think about how to make a good thing even better, and act.\u201d &#8211; John Gottman<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?text=%E2%80%9CLike+the+Second+Law+of+Thermodynamics%2C+which+says+that+in+closed+energy+systems+things+tend+to+run+down+and+get+less+orderly%2C+the+same+seems+to+be+true+of+closed+relationships+like+marriages.+My+guess+is+that+if+you+do+nothing+to+make+things+get+better+in+your+marriage+but+do+not+do+anything+wrong%2C+the+marriage+will+still+tend+to+get+worse+over+time.+To+maintain+a+balanced+emotional+ecology+you+need+to+make+an+effort%E2%80%94think+about+your+spouse+during+the+day%2C+think+about+how+to+make+a+good+thing+even+better%2C+and+act.%E2%80%9D+-+John+Gottman&#038;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.getstoryshots.com%2Far%2Fwp-json%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fposts%2F3328&#038;via=storyshots&#038;related=storyshots\" class=\"ss-ctt-link\" data-title=\"Click to Tweet\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t<span>Click to Tweet<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<svg class=\"ss-svg-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" focusable=\"false\" width=\"32\" height=\"32\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\"><path d=\"M18.244 2.25h3.308l-7.227 8.26 8.502 11.24H16.17l-5.214-6.817L4.99 21.75H1.68l7.73-8.835L1.254 2.25H8.08l4.713 6.231zm-1.161 17.52h1.833L7.084 4.126H5.117z\"><\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t<\/div><!-- END .ss-ctt-wrapper -->\n\n\t\t\n\n\n<p>Couples that know everything about the other person have what Gottman considers a detailed love map. A road map tells you how to get to your destination, a love map shows you how to know and love your partner. The more detailed the map, the stronger the love.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The author tells us the story of Rory and Lisa, a couple who became distant from each other over the years. Rory, a pediatrician, ran an intensive care unit for babies. He had several stresses that came with his work. He would even stay overnight at the hospital, making for a strong work-life but a rocky home life. Rory spent so little time at home that he didn\u2019t even know the family dog\u2019s name. His love map was sparse and he was missing critical details that would strengthen his home life and marriage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Couples who take the time to establish a detailed love map are much better prepared for stress and conflict when they arise. For instance, a new baby can drastically change the dynamic of a relationship and can change a partner\u2019s aspirations and life philosophies. Gottman explains that studies suggest 67 percent of couples experience dissatisfaction in their relationships after the arrival of a new baby. The remaining 33% had detailed love maps that prevented them from losing their way. The lesson here is that the more you know and understand about your spouse, the easier it is to stay connected despite life\u2019s challenges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s also important to remember that love maps never stay the same. Just as a baby can change the relationship\u2019s dynamic, a baby can also alter a partner\u2019s love map. Take the example of Maggie and Ken, who quickly jumped into marriage and started a family. Despite their brief relationship, they understood the ins and outs of one another: their fears, hopes and dreams. At the time of their marriage, Maggie was dedicated to her career as a computer scientist. Once Maggie gave birth to her daughter, she put aside her career to stay home and take care of her child. With new priorities, Maggie\u2019s love map changed and Ken had to realign his own to stay on the same path as Maggie.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Principle Two \u2013 Nurture Your Fondness and Admiration<\/h3>\n\n\n\t\t<div class=\"ss-ctt-wrapper ss-ctt-style-4\" data-ss-post-id=\"3328\" data-nonce=\"4c8e04ecd8\">\n\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?text=%E2%80%9CI%E2%80%99ve+found+94+percent+of+the+time+that+couples+who+put+a+positive+spin+on+their+marriage%E2%80%99s+history+are+likely+to+have+a+happy+future+as+well.+When+happy+memories+are+distorted%2C+it%E2%80%99s+a+sign+that+the+marriage+needs+help.%E2%80%9D+-+John+Gottman%C2%A0&#038;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.getstoryshots.com%2Far%2Fwp-json%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fposts%2F3328&#038;via=storyshots&#038;related=storyshots\" class=\"ss-ctt-tweet\" data-title=\"Click to Tweet\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">\u201cI\u2019ve found 94 percent of the time that couples who put a positive spin on their marriage\u2019s history are likely to have a happy future as well. When happy memories are distorted, it\u2019s a sign that the marriage needs help.\u201d &#8211; John Gottman&nbsp;<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?text=%E2%80%9CI%E2%80%99ve+found+94+percent+of+the+time+that+couples+who+put+a+positive+spin+on+their+marriage%E2%80%99s+history+are+likely+to+have+a+happy+future+as+well.+When+happy+memories+are+distorted%2C+it%E2%80%99s+a+sign+that+the+marriage+needs+help.%E2%80%9D+-+John+Gottman%C2%A0&#038;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.getstoryshots.com%2Far%2Fwp-json%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fposts%2F3328&#038;via=storyshots&#038;related=storyshots\" class=\"ss-ctt-link\" data-title=\"Click to Tweet\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t<span>Click to Tweet<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<svg class=\"ss-svg-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" focusable=\"false\" width=\"32\" height=\"32\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\"><path d=\"M18.244 2.25h3.308l-7.227 8.26 8.502 11.24H16.17l-5.214-6.817L4.99 21.75H1.68l7.73-8.835L1.254 2.25H8.08l4.713 6.231zm-1.161 17.52h1.833L7.084 4.126H5.117z\"><\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t<\/div><!-- END .ss-ctt-wrapper -->\n\n\t\t\n\n\n<p>Gottman provides the examples of Rory and Lisa again to explain how you can nurture your fondness and admiration. Due to their struggles, Rory and Lisa decided to see a counselor. While they thought all hope was lost, they were then asked to recall the early moments of their relationship. This exercise made them discover a glimmer of hope as they realized they still had some fondness and admiration for one another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If a couple can look past their struggles and still speak fondly of early memories, the relationship is still salvageable. If the couple\u2019s memories are negative and distorted, then the marriage needs some help. With Rory, the key to making the relationship thrive was to figure out how to regain his past feelings. So, he changed his work schedule, trained someone to assist him at the hospital and made sure he was home for dinner nightly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fondness and admiration are fragile. That said, if you can remind yourself of your spouse\u2019s positive qualities you can keep your marriage above water. Simply assess your relationship by determining what you think of your spouse while they are away. Next, list three characteristics that describe your spouse. For each one, recall an incident that shows that characteristic in action. You can share this list with your spouse and communicate why you value those traits. You can do this as often as you like and choose different characteristics each time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Principle Three \u2013 Turn Toward Each Other Instead of Away<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Instead of expensive gifts, the small, everyday mundane exchanges are what keep romance and passion alive. As humans, we often make \u201cbids\u201d for our partner\u2019s attention, support, humor, and affection. Your partner will respond to these bids by either turning toward or away from you. Those who turn toward their partner tend to have higher satisfaction in their relationship and sex life. So, take a moment to pause and turn toward your partner at the end of the day when they want to unload their stresses. If you do this, you\u2019ll likely have a more successful marriage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Turning toward your partner can include many small gestures. Perhaps you check in on your partner during their lunch break, or give them a quick call on your way home from work. These small gestures, which can turn into a habit, should never be taken for granted. Remember these tiny moments of gratitude and appreciate your partner for taking the time to pay attention to you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The more you turn toward each other, the more you invest in your emotional bank. As you fill up your emotional bank with positive experiences, you build a cushion to help maintain your positivity during times of conflict. If you do this, you can afford to lose more than other couples. To help build your emotional bank, keep a mental account of your emotional connections with your partner. You can certainly keep a physical account as well. Give yourself a point each time you turn towards your partner and take a point each time you turn away. It\u2019s important to avoid turning this physical account into a competition. Instead, you should simply focus on what you can do for your marriage, not on what your spouse is or isn\u2019t doing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another way to build your emotional bank is to have a conversation each evening about your day. For this to work, you both must be in the frame of mind to have this conversation. Some are ready to talk as soon as they walk in the door, while others may need to decompress after the day. Some rules include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u25cf Spend 20-30 minutes talking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u25cf Take turns throughout the conversation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u25cf Avoid advising unless asked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u25cf Be genuinely interested.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u25cf Show that you understand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u25cf Take their side at all times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u25cf Express a united front attitude.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u25cf Show affection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u25cf Validate how they feel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Lastly, remember that marriage is a dance. Sometimes you feel drawn to your partner, while other times you need to pull away. Everyone has different needs. Some need connection and others need independence. Even if you and your partner have different needs, your marriage can work if you\u2019re willing to put in the time and effort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Principle Four \u2013 Let Your Partner Influence You<\/h3>\n\n\n\t\t<div class=\"ss-ctt-wrapper ss-ctt-style-4\" data-ss-post-id=\"3328\" data-nonce=\"4c8e04ecd8\">\n\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?text=%E2%80%9CThus%2C+the+critical+dimension+in+understanding+whether+a+marriage+will+work+or+not%2C+becomes+the+extent+to+which+the+male+can+accept+the+influence+of+the+woman+he+loves+and+become+socialized+in+emotional+communication.%E2%80%9D+-+John+Gottman&#038;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.getstoryshots.com%2Far%2Fwp-json%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fposts%2F3328&#038;via=storyshots&#038;related=storyshots\" class=\"ss-ctt-tweet\" data-title=\"Click to Tweet\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">\u201cThus, the critical dimension in understanding whether a marriage will work or not, becomes the extent to which the male can accept the influence of the woman he loves and become socialized in emotional communication.\u201d &#8211; John Gottman<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?text=%E2%80%9CThus%2C+the+critical+dimension+in+understanding+whether+a+marriage+will+work+or+not%2C+becomes+the+extent+to+which+the+male+can+accept+the+influence+of+the+woman+he+loves+and+become+socialized+in+emotional+communication.%E2%80%9D+-+John+Gottman&#038;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.getstoryshots.com%2Far%2Fwp-json%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fposts%2F3328&#038;via=storyshots&#038;related=storyshots\" class=\"ss-ctt-link\" data-title=\"Click to Tweet\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t<span>Click to Tweet<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<svg class=\"ss-svg-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" focusable=\"false\" width=\"32\" height=\"32\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\"><path d=\"M18.244 2.25h3.308l-7.227 8.26 8.502 11.24H16.17l-5.214-6.817L4.99 21.75H1.68l7.73-8.835L1.254 2.25H8.08l4.713 6.231zm-1.161 17.52h1.833L7.084 4.126H5.117z\"><\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t<\/div><!-- END .ss-ctt-wrapper -->\n\n\t\t\n\n\n<p>Marriages where partners value one another equally and allow one another to influence their decisions turn out to be happier and more successful. For instance, one study revealed that when wives express negativity, they typically de-escalate the situation. On the other hand, when men express negativity, it often escalates the situation. The reason for this difference is that men often use the \u201cfour horsemen\u201d in an argument.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Marriages where partners accept each other\u2019s influence see success because they understand how to compromise and share their power. Research has suggested women are more emotionally intelligent than men. This research also suggests that men who honor, respect, and recognize their wives\u2019 intellectual strengths are more likely to listen to them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Gottman provides a test you can use to determine the power of your relationship. Imagine you and your spouse as the only survivors after your cruise ship sinks. You find yourself on a deserted island and decide you need to survive as long as possible and make sure you are visible. Gottman provides a list of twenty-six items and describes something called the Gottman Island Survival Game:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Two changes of clothing&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>AM-FM and short-wave radio receiver&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ten gallons of water&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pots and pans&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Matches&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shovel&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Backpack&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Toilet paper&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Two tents&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Two sleeping bags&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Knife&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Small life raft, with sail&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sunblock lotion&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cookstove and lantern&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Long rope&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Two walkie-talkie sender-receiver units&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Freeze-dried food for seven days&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>One change of clothing&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>One-fifth of whiskey&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flares&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Compass&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Regional aerial maps&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gun with six bullets&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fifty packages of condoms&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>First-aid kit with penicillin&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Oxygen tanks<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Independently, look over the list and choose the ten you feel are necessary. Then, rank them in order of importance. Next, share your list with your spouse and come to an agreeable list of ten. Play an active role in this conversation and make the final decision together. Once completed, evaluate how the game went and if either of you is having trouble accepting the other\u2019s influence. If this is the case, it\u2019s best to acknowledge the problem and talk it over.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Principle Five \u2013 Solve Your Solvable Problems<\/h3>\n\n\n\t\t<div class=\"ss-ctt-wrapper ss-ctt-style-4\" data-ss-post-id=\"3328\" data-nonce=\"4c8e04ecd8\">\n\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?text=%E2%80%9CMost+marital+arguments+cannot+be+resolved.+Couples+spend+year+after+year+trying+to+change+each+other%E2%80%99s+mind%E2%80%94but+it+can%E2%80%99t+be+done.+This+is+because+most+of+their+disagreements+are+rooted+in+fundamental+differences+of+lifestyle%2C+personality%2C+or+values.+By+fighting+over+these+differences%2C+all+they+succeed+in+doing+is+wasting+their+time+and+harming+their+marriage.%E2%80%9D+-+John+Gottman&#038;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.getstoryshots.com%2Far%2Fwp-json%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fposts%2F3328&#038;via=storyshots&#038;related=storyshots\" class=\"ss-ctt-tweet\" data-title=\"Click to Tweet\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">\u201cMost marital arguments cannot be resolved. Couples spend year after year trying to change each other\u2019s mind\u2014but it can\u2019t be done. This is because most of their disagreements are rooted in fundamental differences of lifestyle, personality, or values. By fighting over these differences, all they succeed in doing is wasting their time and harming their marriage.\u201d &#8211; John Gottman<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?text=%E2%80%9CMost+marital+arguments+cannot+be+resolved.+Couples+spend+year+after+year+trying+to+change+each+other%E2%80%99s+mind%E2%80%94but+it+can%E2%80%99t+be+done.+This+is+because+most+of+their+disagreements+are+rooted+in+fundamental+differences+of+lifestyle%2C+personality%2C+or+values.+By+fighting+over+these+differences%2C+all+they+succeed+in+doing+is+wasting+their+time+and+harming+their+marriage.%E2%80%9D+-+John+Gottman&#038;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.getstoryshots.com%2Far%2Fwp-json%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fposts%2F3328&#038;via=storyshots&#038;related=storyshots\" class=\"ss-ctt-link\" data-title=\"Click to Tweet\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t<span>Click to Tweet<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<svg class=\"ss-svg-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" focusable=\"false\" width=\"32\" height=\"32\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\"><path d=\"M18.244 2.25h3.308l-7.227 8.26 8.502 11.24H16.17l-5.214-6.817L4.99 21.75H1.68l7.73-8.835L1.254 2.25H8.08l4.713 6.231zm-1.161 17.52h1.833L7.084 4.126H5.117z\"><\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t<\/div><!-- END .ss-ctt-wrapper -->\n\n\t\t\n\n\n<p>Conflicts arise in every marriage. Marriage involves the merging of two unique individuals. So, it is unrealistic to think that spouses will agree in all situations. There are two types of conflict in every marriage: Those that can be resolved and those that are perpetual or ongoing conflicts. Sixty-nine percent of marital conflicts fall under the perpetual or ongoing category. The five main ongoing conflicts are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u25cf One partner wanting a baby and the other not being ready.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u25cf One partner wants sex more frequently than the other.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u25cf One partner rarely does the chores until the other nags them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u25cf One partner has a different faith than the other and both want to raise the children in their faith.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u25cf One partner believes the other is too critical of the children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite these conflicts, couples can remain happy if they have found a way that works for them to deal with the differences. Sometimes it only takes bringing up the conversation calmly and paying attention to the physical signs to overcome the conflicts within a marriage. Pay attention to your facial expressions, gestures, and tone of voice and make sure that they are appropriate throughout the conversation. For instance, if your wife is in tears, don\u2019t continue to raise your voice at her. Instead, keep calm and soften your tone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The model for resolving conflicts simply begins with softening your startup. A soft startup allows your partner to accept your influence and the conversation is more likely to be successful. Some ways to soften your startup are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Avoiding blame.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Making \u201cI\u201d statements, not \u201cyou.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoiding judgment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Being clear, polite, and appreciative.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Laying everything out rather than storing things up inside.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The second step is to learn to make and receive repair attempts. You should learn how to stop when an argument gets out of hand. For instance, putting your arms around your wife when you see her becoming flooded with anger and emotion. Change this approach based on how your partner receives love. Some partners may perceive physical touch as an act of aggression. So, a hug may not work in all cases. It\u2019s not enough just to repair, but to learn how to repair effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Lastly, you should find common ground and accept one another\u2019s faults. To find common ground, you should ask yourself:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Where do we agree?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What feelings do we have in common?&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What goals can we share?&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How should these goals be accomplished?&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If a solvable problem arises, finding common ground can help you identify an agreeable compromise. That said, you will be unable to compromise if you cannot accept your partner\u2019s faults. Avoid the \u201cif only\u201d and be tolerant of each other\u2019s faults. Once you\u2019ve mastered your problem-solving skills, you\u2019ll see many issues within your marriage begin to resolve themselves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Principle Six \u2013 Overcome Gridlock<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Perpetual conflicts can feel like a gridlock in which neither spouse can see their partner\u2019s point of view. You may feel caged because you and your partner have the same argument over and over again. The goal is to be open and talk about the problem, not necessarily solve it. It may be an unsolvable problem. Crucially, you can learn to live with it by communicating with one another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To overcome a gridlock, you must both recognize that gridlock occurs when one or both of your dreams are not being respected. When you feel respected, it\u2019s easier to compromise. Gottman offers the example of Malcolm and Shelley to explain this point. Shelley wants to get a degree, while Malcolm wants to quit his job and start his own business. Their dreams are different. Despite this, as a happy couple, they discuss their dreams and come to an agreeable compromise. Conversely, couples who don\u2019t appreciate the importance of supporting their partner\u2019s dreams will find themselves gridlocked with no end in sight.<\/p>\n\n\n\t\t<div class=\"ss-ctt-wrapper ss-ctt-style-4\" data-ss-post-id=\"3328\" data-nonce=\"4c8e04ecd8\">\n\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?text=%E2%80%9CThe+point+is+that+neuroses+don%E2%80%99t+have+to+ruin+a+marriage.+If+you+can+accommodate+each+other%E2%80%99s+%E2%80%9Ccrazy%E2%80%9D+side+and+handle+it+with+caring%2C+affection%2C+and+respect%2C+your+marriage+can+thrive.%E2%80%9D+-+John+Gottman&#038;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.getstoryshots.com%2Far%2Fwp-json%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fposts%2F3328&#038;via=storyshots&#038;related=storyshots\" class=\"ss-ctt-tweet\" data-title=\"Click to Tweet\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">\u201cThe point is that neuroses don\u2019t have to ruin a marriage. If you can accommodate each other\u2019s \u201ccrazy\u201d side and handle it with caring, affection, and respect, your marriage can thrive.\u201d &#8211; John Gottman<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?text=%E2%80%9CThe+point+is+that+neuroses+don%E2%80%99t+have+to+ruin+a+marriage.+If+you+can+accommodate+each+other%E2%80%99s+%E2%80%9Ccrazy%E2%80%9D+side+and+handle+it+with+caring%2C+affection%2C+and+respect%2C+your+marriage+can+thrive.%E2%80%9D+-+John+Gottman&#038;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.getstoryshots.com%2Far%2Fwp-json%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fposts%2F3328&#038;via=storyshots&#038;related=storyshots\" class=\"ss-ctt-link\" data-title=\"Click to Tweet\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t<span>Click to Tweet<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t<svg class=\"ss-svg-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"img\" focusable=\"false\" width=\"32\" height=\"32\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\"><path d=\"M18.244 2.25h3.308l-7.227 8.26 8.502 11.24H16.17l-5.214-6.817L4.99 21.75H1.68l7.73-8.835L1.254 2.25H8.08l4.713 6.231zm-1.161 17.52h1.833L7.084 4.126H5.117z\"><\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t<\/div><!-- END .ss-ctt-wrapper -->\n\n\t\t\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Principle Seven \u2013 Create Shared Meaning<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The culture Gottman describes in this book is the culture you and your spouse create within your marriage. Each couple and family create their own micro-culture with their own customs, rituals and traditions. This doesn\u2019t mean that you have to agree on everything, but you must be willing to grow and develop as you create your culture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another example used by Gottman is that of Kevin and Helen. This couple entered marriage wanting to have independent careers, interests and social circles. Due to their independence, Helen recognized her insufficient connection with her husband. She simply felt like a roommate as they lived separate lives. So, they decided to sit down together and discuss their past. They shared their childhood experiences and their family values with one another. Through this conversation, Keven and Helen could connect on a new level and find some common ground to build their shared meaning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To help create shared meaning, there are rituals that you must create that allow you and your spouse to connect. A simple phone call at lunch can be a small ritual that you adopt to show your spouse that you are thinking of them. Additionally, the roles we play significantly affect how we view one another and the world. You may have an idea of the role you wish to play in marriage. Despite this, you and your spouse must communicate those roles effectively to be happy. For instance, Ian and Hilary agreed the husband should be the protector and provider while the wife should take on the nurturer role. In contrast, Chloe and Evan viewed their marriage in a more egalitarian way by both supporting each other emotionally and financially.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whatever roles and rituals you and your partner adopt, each spouse needs to agree with the chosen roles and rituals. Through compromise and communication, you can enjoy a happy, long-lasting marriage, just like many of the couples encountered throughout this book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final Summary and Review of The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A successful, long-lasting marriage is possible. Even if you find yourself in the throes of a doomed marriage, there are steps you can take to recover and revive your relationship to what it once was. By applying the seven principles, you can learn how to communicate effectively, make agreeable compromises and overcome solvable and perpetual conflicts. The key to a happy marriage is how you approach conflict. When you adopt the four horsemen in your arguments, your marriage is in trouble. That said, it doesn\u2019t have to be in trouble forever. By nurturing the fondness and admiration you have for your partner, you can save your marriage. Additionally, you should let your partner influence you and communicate the roles you wish to have within your marriage. Once you adopt and practice the seven principles, you can enjoy a happy marriage prepared to last a lifetime.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work PDF, Free Audiobook, Animated Book Summary<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Comment below and let others know what you have learned or if you have any other thoughts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>New to StoryShots? Get the audio and animated versions of this summary and hundreds of other best-selling nonfiction books in our<a href=\"https:\/\/go.getstoryshots.com\/free\"> free top-ranking app.<\/a> It\u2019s been featured by Apple, The Guardian, the UN, and Google as one of the world\u2019s best reading and learning apps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To dive into the details, order the <a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/7-marriage-work-book\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">book<\/a> or get the audiobook <a href=\"https:\/\/geni.us\/7-work-free-audiobook\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">for free<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Rating<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>How would you rate The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work based on this summary?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-yet-another-stars-rating-visitor-votes yasr-vv-block\"><!--Yasr Visitor Votes Shortcode--><div id='yasr_visitor_votes_d1096d9b9c286' class='yasr-visitor-votes'><div class=\"yasr-custom-text-vv-before yasr-custom-text-vv-before-3328\">Click to rate this book!<\/div><div id='yasr-vv-second-row-container-d1096d9b9c286'\r\n                                        class='yasr-vv-second-row-container'><div id='yasr-visitor-votes-rater-d1096d9b9c286'\r\n                                      class='yasr-rater-stars-vv'\r\n                                      data-rater-postid='3328'\r\n                                      data-rating='3.9'\r\n                                      data-rater-starsize='32'\r\n                                      data-rater-readonly='false'\r\n                                      data-rater-nonce='d2cb598c43'\r\n                                      data-issingular='false'\r\n                                    ><\/div><div class=\"yasr-vv-stats-text-container\" id=\"yasr-vv-stats-text-container-d1096d9b9c286\"><svg xmlns=\"https:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\"\r\n                                   class=\"yasr-dashicons-visitor-stats\"\r\n                                   data-postid=\"3328\"\r\n                                   id=\"yasr-stats-dashicon-d1096d9b9c286\">\r\n                                   <path d=\"M18 18v-16h-4v16h4zM12 18v-11h-4v11h4zM6 18v-8h-4v8h4z\"><\/path>\r\n                               <\/svg><span id=\"yasr-vv-text-container-d1096d9b9c286\" class=\"yasr-vv-text-container\">[Total: <span id=\"yasr-vv-votes-number-container-d1096d9b9c286\">7<\/span> Average: <span id=\"yasr-vv-average-container-d1096d9b9c286\">3.9<\/span>]<\/span><\/div><div id='yasr-vv-loader-d1096d9b9c286' class='yasr-vv-container-loader'><\/div><\/div><div id='yasr-vv-bottom-container-d1096d9b9c286' class='yasr-vv-bottom-container'><\/div><\/div><!--End Yasr Visitor Votes Shortcode--><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related Book Summaries<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getstoryshots.com\/books\/the-5-love-languages-summary\">The 5 Love Languages<\/a> by Gary Chapman<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getstoryshots.com\/books\/mating-in-captivity-summary\">Mating in Captivity<\/a> by Esther Perel<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getstoryshots.com\/books\/men-are-from-mars-women-are-from-venus-summary\">Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus<\/a> by John Gray<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getstoryshots.com\/books\/modern-romance-summary\">Modern Romance<\/a> by Aziz Ansari and Eric Klinenberg<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getstoryshots.com\/books\/the-way-of-the-superior-man-summary\">The Way of the Superior Man<\/a> by David Deida<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getstoryshots.com\/books\/attached-summary\">Attached<\/a> by Amir Levine and Rachel Heller<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getstoryshots.com\/books\/come-as-you-are-summary\">Come as You Are<\/a> by Emily Nagoski<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getstoryshots.com\/books\/how-to-think-more-about-sex-summary\">How to Think More About Sex<\/a> by Alain de Botton<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getstoryshots.com\/books\/difficult-conversations-summary\">Difficult Conversations<\/a> by Bruce Patton, Douglas Stone and Sheila Heen<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.getstoryshots.com\/books\/sex-at-dawn-summary\">Sex at Dawn<\/a> by Christopher Ryan and Cacilda Jeth\u00e1<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>\u062f\u0644\u064a\u0644 \u0639\u0645\u0644\u064a \u0645\u0646 \u062e\u0628\u064a\u0631 \u0627\u0644\u0639\u0644\u0627\u0642\u0627\u062a \u0627\u0644\u0623\u0628\u0631\u0632 \u0641\u064a \u0627\u0644\u0628\u0644\u0627\u062f \u0627\u0644\u0645\u0628\u0627\u062f\u0626 \u0627\u0644\u0633\u0628\u0639\u0629 \u0644\u0625\u0646\u062c\u0627\u062d \u0627\u0644\u0632\u0648\u0627\u062c \u0647\u0648 \u0643\u062a\u0627\u0628 \u0627\u0644\u0639\u0644\u0627\u0642\u0627\u062a \u0627\u0644\u0623\u0643\u062b\u0631 \u0645\u0628\u064a\u0639\u064b\u0627 \u0627\u0644\u0630\u064a \u064a\u0642\u062f\u0645 \u0627\u0633\u062a\u0631\u0627\u062a\u064a\u062c\u064a\u0627\u062a \u0642\u0627\u0626\u0645\u0629 \u0639\u0644\u0649 \u0627\u0644\u0623\u0628\u062d\u0627\u062b \u0644\u062a\u0642\u0648\u064a\u0629 \u0632\u0648\u0627\u062c\u0643 \u0648\u062a\u0639\u0645\u064a\u0642 \u0639\u0644\u0627\u0642\u062a\u0643 \u0627\u0644\u0632\u0648\u062c\u064a\u0629 - \u0647\u0644 \u0623\u0646\u062a \u0645\u0633\u062a\u0639\u062f \u0644\u0643\u0634\u0641 \u0623\u0633\u0631\u0627\u0631 \u0627\u0644\u062d\u0628 \u0627\u0644\u062f\u0627\u0626\u0645\u061f \u2764\ufe0f \u0627\u0644\u062d\u064a\u0627\u0629 \u0645\u0632\u062f\u062d\u0645\u0629. \u0647\u0644 \u0643\u0627\u0646 \u0643\u062a\u0627\u0628 \"\u0627\u0644\u0645\u0628\u0627\u062f\u0626 \u0627\u0644\u0633\u0628\u0639\u0629 \u0644\u0625\u0646\u062c\u0627\u062d \u0627\u0644\u0632\u0648\u0627\u062c\" \u064a\u062a\u0631\u0627\u0643\u0645 \u0639\u0644\u064a\u0647 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