Becoming a Wife.

Though it's true that not everyone enters marriage as naive as I did, becoming a wife can be a difficult transition if you aren't fully prepared for it.

What I thought:

Happiness

Rainbows & sunshine

No arguments

Doing what we wanted when we wanted

Minimal stress

What really happened:

Difficult conversations

Moving, school, & familial stress

Trying really hard not to get mad

Not always getting my way

Being away from my family for the first time ever

I didn't realize what a transition it would be. But, just like so many other couples, we got through it. And we're happy! Becoming a wife isn't necessarily all you may have thought it would be. Here are my top 10 pieces of advice for soon-to-be or new wives (or even "seasoned" wives!).

10. Don't Overreact.

Seriously. One of the biggest issues I had as a newlywed was that I always overreacted about the small things. Don't let a sock left on the floor ruin your whole day.

9. Talk it Out.

Sometimes it is the most beneficial to get all your feelings & thoughts out on the table so you can work through your issues.

8. Don't Beat a Dead Horse.

Other times, you need to let it go. Be in tune with your partner's needs to know when you need to talk through your problems and when he's had enough talking for one night. It's always okay to take a breather.

7. Learn the Art of Forgiveness.

Forgiveness is all too crucial in a marriage. And believe me, it's an art. In 99.99% of situations, your feelings of anger will pass anyway, so humble yourself and truly forgive him as quickly as you can.

6. Assume the Best.

Don't jump to conclusions. When you think something may have happened, take a step back and try not to get worked up prematurely. Always assume the best to avoid an unnecessary argument.

5. Know that You Have Faults.

It's true, you're not perfect either. Realize that he's not the only flawed human in your marriage and you'll avoid feeling resentful for his mistakes. 

4. Don't Gossip.

That's right, you don't need to tell your BFF about the chat you had the other night. Gossip is toxic for a marriage. Why bring in radioactive waste when you don't need to? (With this being said, make sure that you have someone to reach out to if you are in danger.)

3. Enjoy the Small Things.

He can't read your mind, so how will he know to get you that gorgeous pair of shoes? When he places a sweet handwritten note into your hand instead, take time to really appreciate it. Those small gestures will begin to mean the world to you.

2. Minimize Your Stress.

We all know stress puts us into a bad mood. Try to minimize your stress levels in other areas so you can really put your effort where it counts: your marriage. 

1. Remember.

Remember that beautiful wedding day with the perfect dress, the perfect flowers and decor, and your family & friends surrounding you to celebrate your love. As time passes, you'll begin to forget those small details and only remember the joy & love you felt for him. Remember those wonderfully strong feelings & cherish it. Choose to love him more than you loved him that day.

I can't guarantee you a perfect marriage, but I can promise that if you really focus on doing these things, you'll experience the true happiness that you were expecting in your naivete prior to becoming a wife.