We interviewed four blissful pairs who've been together 10, 20, 30 and 40 years - and the relationship advice they give might just surprise you.
By Alaina Vieru
‘Let’s stick together,’ the old song goes. But when it comes to modern love, it’s easier said than done. With one in three UK marriages ending in divorce, technology providing cheating at our fingertips, and personal happiness being the new holy grail (witness Eat, Pray, Love, which could’ve been subtitled, I’m In A ‘Meh’ Marriage, Get Me Out Of Here!) it’s hard not to wonder, how do people happily stay together? And more importantly: what’s their secret?
We’ve quizzed four loved-up, long-term pairs to glean some nuggets of relationship advice gold. And while there’s the usual stuff about compromise, there is also a surprising amount about individuality, giving each other space, and of course, sex…
The 10-years together couple
Rich, 33, and Natalie, 28, live in Essex and have been together for 10 years. They met 12 years ago when Natalie did work experience at a record store where Rich was working.
Be yourself… but grow together as people - "The things that initially attracted us to each other have got stronger," says Nat.
"Give each other space when you need to," says Nat, and Rich agrees. "Allowing each other the room to find our way through difficult situations has brought separate strengths to our partnership."
No one and no relationship is ‘perfect’ - "Take the pressure to be perfect out of the equation so you can relax and enjoy each other completely," advises Nat. "Try not to build preconceived ideas of how things should be. Give each other a chance and you’ll find your own way together."
"Never take each other for granted no matter how long you’ve been together," Nat says. "Everyone still needs a kiss when they come home from work and a 'thank you' for loading the washing machine for the millionth time. Don’t stop the small signs of affection; they’re the ones that mean the most."
"There are memories to be made in everything you do together," says Rich. "Never be afraid to be passionate, positive or silly. In public or private." Nat says: "Laugh a lot. And when it comes to sex, have fun discovering as many new things as you can."
