Just like taking a training course to better yourself in your job, there are training programs out there to help you with your marriage. Knowing a few, simple tips can bring out the best in your marriage and make you feel better about yourself as well. You cannot be completely happy in your marriage if you are not happy with yourself. Find yourself before you start in on the "YOU + ME = US" US is a big commitment and requires all of YOU. Take a few minutes and write down a list of 50 things that make you happy. Have your partner do the same, share the lists. You may be shocked at how easily you can make your partner happy.

Take responsibility for yourself and your actions. You can't control how your partner feels or acts; you can only control your actions and reactions. If you have a feeling about something, check into it. Your partner can't read your mind, say what you mean. When having a discussion, use "I" statements. ("I feel." vs. "You make me feel.") don't place blame on your partner or you. Let them know your thoughts and feelings by stating them clearly. Your partner may not be able to give you everything you need, be prepared to meet your own needs.

Be aware of yourself. Be aware of how you react to your current relationship instead of acting on feelings or beliefs from a previous relationship or memories from your childhood. If you grew up in an unhappy home you may have some underlying issues of your own. Check yourself before you pick a fight. Ask yourself if it's really worth whatever you are feeling, whatever you are about to say or do.

Take care of yourself and your other relationships. Being married or in a committed relationship does not mean you are no longer you. Your relationships with friends are still very important too. We all need a "time out" to spend with a friend. Take time for YOU, relax in a bath, and take a yoga class or some type of exercise regimen. Do something you enjoy doing alone. Don't lose sight of who you were before your relationship, losing sight can cause unwanted feelings of regret.

If your partner does something that bothers you, take another look. Ask yourself why this is bothering you. Am I bringing feelings from the past into this? Have I done anything to contribute to this problem? When you can discuss the issue with your loved one, no critical or statements placing blame make sure you explain why you are bothered by his or her action or statement. Let him or her give you their side of the story.
Accept your partner for who they are, let them know you appreciate them. When you show your love and appreciation, even for the small things, the feelings will be returned. When in doubt, ask yourself how you would want to be treated in the situation.

Take time to enjoy your marriage as a journey, not just an institution. If there are a few bumps or rocks in the road, take a minute and talk about them. No marriage is constantly perfect and happy. We all have our bumps in the road. It just depends on how we deal with them and how we take care of each other's feelings during those bumps.