What makes a successful marriage?

 

Chelsea and I have been married 18 years. It’s always so special to bring her on the podcast. She inspires me! 

 

While there’s been plenty of ups and downs along the way, here are a few things we decided have helped us get this far and stay happy in our marriage:

 

• Shared values and beliefs: Since we’re both a part of the same faith, this has allowed Chelsea and I to connect more on a deep spiritual level than we would otherwise. Our shared faith brings hope in a brighter future, and gives us the strength we need to push through when challenges come.

• Shared goals and vision: Even though we’re different people, Chelsea and I have always worked together to make sure our visions of the future are aligned and that we both know what steps we must take to get there. If we didn’t communicate frequently about where we are and where we want to go, it would be like trying to tow a car in two different directions at once—we wouldn’t get anywhere.

• Shared priorities: Financial situation is one of the leading causes of divorce, and we’ve had our share of highs and lows financially throughout my career. But what kept us together during those times was that we both knew that in the end, the money didn’t matter. What did matter was our commitment to each other and our children. We both believed that you can be happy married and poor, but you can’t be happy divorced and wealthy.