Here are some tips to living a happy married life (I might be leaving a few out, so feel free to add your own)

1. Marry the right person and don't "settle." Being happily married means making the right decision on who you marry. So many people get married because it's the "right time," or they just want to have kids, or the person is "nice." These are not criteria. Find someone that makes your heart sing, that you're attracted to, best friends with, and share the same perspectives on life/work/future.

2. Don't Sweat the Small Stuff. Life is full of annoying things, and things that actually matter...don't spend time worrying about things that don't matter. Are you healthy, financially sound, and solid together as a couple? Then that's what matters...

3. Trust each other. If you love and trust this person enough to have married them, than please don't be checking their phone or what they do on Facebook.

4. Have independent interests. Does your husband like to go waterskiing even if you hate it? Awesome! It gives you a lot more to talk about when you spend some time apart periodically - and it makes people so much happier as individuals to be able to do what they love.

5. Do fun new things together - regularly. Have you both wanted to try ziplining? Or maybe just a local Apple Festival is more your speed. Whatever it is - get out of the grind, and do something new and fun as a couple - and do it often. That's how great memories are made.

6. Open, Respectful Communication - Put everything on the table. Nothing should be forbidden from discussion. Want to talk about your sex life? How you feel about a recent loss? Concerns you have? Then you should. But I say "respectful" conversation because if you use communication as a vehicle for ripping someone apart, it will only hurt your marriage. Everyone wants to be heard in a respectful way...so put your own ego aside, listen, and you'll both be better spouses.

7. Have 5 year plans, and both be working on them. Have goals that you are working toward as a couple that you come up with together...maybe it's to own a home, or pay off debt, have kids, or maybe it's specific in your careers. Working together as a team brings you closer and makes you feel like you're building a life together. You are - so you both might as well direct it.

8. Don't take life too seriously. It's a serious blessing to find someone willing to not only put up with you, but love you for who you are...if you both recognize how fortunate you are, life gets a whole lot better.

9. Fight Fair, and never make it personal. Yes, you will disagree from time to time - but always keep it about the subject matter, and don't resort to personal attacks. For example, if your spouse won't work...make it about money, not that you think your spouse is lazy. Don't insult someone's appearance, intelligence, etc...Personal attacks last long after the argument...and people may forgive you, but they won't forget what you said about them...it fractures relationships little by little.

10. Take no crap. Obviously this should go without saying...but have high standards for yourself and hold to them. I say this to both men and women...if someone disrespects you - cheats on you, hits you, etc...WALK.