Marriage is probably the most important commitment in a person’s life. It marks the beginning of a new chapter in life and lifelong companionship. Marriage also means embracing a world of changes. Your priorities may change, and so you might too. Your life begins to revolve around your husband, your in-laws and even more so after a baby comes into the picture. Unfortunately, with all the changes and the new beginnings, few old relationships tend to get left behind, especially the friendships which you treasure so much.
Marriage requires you to be in-sync with your partner, especially when it comes to matters of friendship. Couples often complain about the kind of company their spouses keep and could disapprove of them. This could strain your relationship. To avoid this, you must learn to accommodate the interests of your partner, without overly compromising on yours.
Here are 5 ways in which you can keep your marriage and friendship intertwined into one another and maintain healthy relations in both:
* Identify FriendsIdentifying friends who will add positive value to your life and weeding out toxic influences from your friend circle is more or less as continuous practice. When dealing with something as important as a marriage, it is important that you choose to stay friends with your pals who will have positive influence. As time passes, you learn a lot about the people you spend or have spent time with. After marriage, it becomes all the more important to become aware of people with pessimistic approach around you because it will affect your spouse as well. So, put a little extra effort into sticking to people who will put positive efforts you’re your relationship as well. Reliable friends bring a lot of positivity in your life and also help you develop as a person.
* Draw LimitsNo matter how long your friendship runs into time, a marriage can change your equation with your friends. You must set some limits to the level of commitment that you can offer to your friends once you are married. It is important to help your friends understand that marriage will change your priorities and that you may not be able to spend as much time with them as earlier. However, at the same time, do not forget to always show them that they are going to be an integral part of your life and you will be there for them as well.
* Make time – share and ListenThe most critical factor in maintaining any relationship is being there when the other person needs you. After marriage and having a baby, when making time for yourself becomes difficult, meeting old friends the last thing on your to-do list. Maintaining long-term friendships isn’t a rocket science and requires nothing more than small gestures. An occasional phone call or message via social networking apps will help you keep in touch with them. It is important to make time to share your problems as well as experiences and to listen to your friends. Although, all your friends may not be able to relate to the stories of your married life, staying in touch and discussing just the general topics goes a long way in showing your friends that they are important to you.
* Create a BalanceFriends are your best support system. They may be your go-to people for sharing problems and seeking advice. However, it is important to not overlook the fact that your spouse hopes to be your pillar of support as well. Your marriage takes precedence over friendship. It helps if you ensure that the support you require comes not only from your friends. Do not hesitate to approach your spouse for support and at the same time be there to support them when required. This also helps you strengthen your bond.
* New FriendsEven after your best efforts in maintaining an old friendship, things might not be the way you want them to. People change, and you cannot control that. At times, it becomes important to let go of the old friends and be open to the possibilities of making new friends.You can even be friends with your spouse’s pals and enjoy the advantage of hanging out as a couple on double dates and get-togethers.