15 Secrets to a Strong Relationship: Experts Emphasize Habits That Build Lasting Marriages

By Dr. John Mining

In a time when relationships face increasing pressure from busy schedules, social media, and rising divorce rates, relationship experts are drawing attention back to the foundational habits that make marriages strong, resilient, and fulfilling.

According to marriage counselors and faith leaders, the happiest marriages are not built on luck or emotions alone, but on intentional daily choices. A growing body of relationship research and lived experience points to 15 key principles that couples who thrive consistently practice.

At the heart of every strong marriage is investment. Couples who read books on marriage, learn conflict resolution skills, and intentionally treat their spouse better than anyone else tend to report higher satisfaction. “The more you invest in your marriage, the more valuable it becomes,” experts note.

Communication remains the cornerstone of marital success. Open, honest, and ongoing dialogue helps couples stay aligned emotionally and practically. Clear communication about expectations, feelings, and needs prevents misunderstandings from becoming long-term resentments.

Another essential factor is commitment, especially during difficult seasons. Marriage, experts explain, naturally goes through highs and lows. Couples who refuse to give up during challenging times and resist the temptation to believe “the grass is greener elsewhere” are more likely to experience deeper connection over time.

Strong relationships are also marked by the ability to listen, not just speak. Taking time to truly hear a partner—asking about their day and giving full attention—builds emotional safety and trust.

In an age of oversharing, couples are encouraged to protect their private life. While sharing joyful moments online can be positive, bringing conflicts or sensitive issues into the public space often invites unnecessary interference and pressure.

Conflict, experts say, is normal—but how couples handle it matters. Letting small issues slide, avoiding insults, and listening during disagreements reduces emotional damage and strengthens respect.

Healthy marriages are further sustained by daily recommitment, regular date time, and total transparency. Trust flourishes when partners choose honesty over secrecy and prioritize time together despite busy lives.

Trying new experiences together, offering frequent compliments, and never putting each other down in public help maintain admiration and friendship—two pillars of long-lasting love.

Simple expressions of affection also matter. Saying “I love you” regularly reinforces emotional connection, while compromise demonstrates humility and care for one another’s happiness.

For faith-based couples, prayer plays a unique role. Couples who pray for and with each other, lifting one another’s burdens and thanking God for their union, often report greater unity and peace. Celebrating milestones, laughing together, and sharing life’s joys further strengthen the marital bond.

As one counselor summarized, “Marriage doesn’t fail overnight. It succeeds daily—through love, patience, forgiveness, and intentional effort.”

With these principles in practice, many couples testify that love not only endures but grows stronger with time. And for those who believe, the declaration remains a powerful one: You will not fail in marriage, in Jesus’ name.

— Dr. John Mining