Secret to a Happy Marriage: 2 Vacations per Year, 1 Argument Per Week
Published at(LONDON) — Getting away on vacation twice a year isn’t just good for your mental health; it’s also good for your marriage. A new survey of 2,000 happily married couples in the U.K. has uncovered what appear to be the secrets to a successful future together.
Getting away on vacation twice a year was cited as one of the key ingredients in a happy marriage. Fifty-eight percent of respondents said they like to get away because it helps remind them of why they love each other so much. Fifty-five percent say they are more likely to make time for each other while on vacation than at any other time of the year. Having a healthy argument once a week was also considered an important component of a healthy relationship.
Additional survey findings:
- 47 percent of respondents say they were friends with a partner before they became an item, and then eventually married.
- 21 percent say one key to a happy marriage is turning a blind eye to their partner’s annoying habits.
- 33 percent say it’s important to know when to say you’re sorry.
- 35 percent of respondents say they’re happy in their marriage because they share the household chores equally.
- Compromising on what TV shows you watch also plays a part in a happy marriage.
Here’s a breakdown of what survey respondents say are important ingredients in a happy marriage:
- Vacations, twice a year.
- Short breaks, twice a year.
- Say “I love you,” nine times every two weeks.
- Kiss, six times a week.
- Cuddle, 11 times every two weeks.
- Have sex, two times a week.
- Deep and meaningful conversation, two times a week.
- Dinner out, three times a month.
- Drinks out, three times a month.
- Healthy argument, once a week.
- Boys/girls’ night out without partner, twice a month.
- Surprise romantic gesture, three times a month.
- Movie night at home, five times a month.
The survey was commissioned by Headwater Holidays, a travel firm.
Copyright 2012 ABC News Radio