If you simply search what makes a marriage last, you’ll find thousands of articles about the topic. Everyone wants to know what makes a relationship last in today’s increasingly stressful, confusing world, but no one knows better than two people who have been together for more than seventy years. Yes, you read that correctly…more than seven decades of being committed to one another and no one else.

Mr. and Mrs. Lombardi, one of the world’s most inspiring power couples, got married 72 years ago, and have built a beautiful relationship based on love, trust, understanding, and friendship. They’re more in love today than ever, even at 95 years of age.

They’ve given us some great tips on keeping relationships together, and anyone who desires a long-lasting relationship such as theirs should pay close attention to their advice. After all, no relationship counselor or book written about the subject could substitute for real experiences and wisdom.

The Top Relationship Tips From A Happily Married Couple of 72 Years

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1. Always just choose love.

Some days it might seem harder than others, but you have to commit to love if you want to keep your relationship together.

2. Compliment each other.

Relationships can only work if you commit to being kind to one another. You have to build each other up, not tear each other down. Say something nice to one another every day, even if it’s just “You look beautiful/handsome.”

3. Have an active sex life.

Touch and intimacy are important in any healthy, long-term relationship. Even if you don’t have sex as often as you used to, try to make time for intimacy at least a few nights per week.

4. Live close to family.

You need to have other relationships in your life besides the one with your spouse or significant other. Make sure to stay close with family and share memories and experiences with them.

5. Eat healthy and be mindful of sugar consumption.

Mr. and Mrs. Lombardi still ride around on bikes, even in their 90s. If they’ve taught us anything, it’s to commit to your health even in your younger years when you feel invincible, and stay active. They both eat homecooked meals every day and eat out sparingly.

6. Say no to cheating.

Cheating can destroy even the best, healthiest relationships. If you’ve committed to someone, then honor that commitment, and don’t throw away gold for a cheap imitation.

 

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7. Don’t go to bed angry.

You have probably heard this many times before, but the Lombardi’s stand by this 100%. They say “just kiss” whenever you feel mad, and it will improve everything. Maybe it won’t always be that simple, but you can’t knock it ’til you try it, right?!

8. An argument doesn’t mean the relationship is doomed.

In over seven decades of being together, the Lombardi’s have probably gotten in countless fights. They say arguments happen in any relationship, but they don’t have to tear two people apart. Everyone disagrees from time to time, but listening and respecting one another’s point of view can make the difference between a healthy argument and a harmful, unproductive one.

9. Have respect for each other.

Obviously, any relationship must have respect for it to work. Always remind your lover how much you value and appreciate them, because they sacrifice a lot to make the relationship work.

10. Don’t forget to clean!

Mr. and Mrs. Lombardi believe that you should keep your home clean and organized. After all, a disorderly home likely reflects a chaotic inner life as well.

11. Commit to good parenting.

If you have kids together, treat them with the same love and respect that you show each other. Provide them with a decent education, and don’t pressure them into doing any one thing in life. Let them carve their own path, but show them the light along the way.

12. Marry good genes.

We don’t really think anything else needs to be said about this one.

13. Have a partner that shares your beliefs on faith.

Or, at the very least, supports your beliefs and takes the time to understand them.

14. Embrace both the good times and the bad.

It won’t always be smooth-sailing, but as long as you support one another no matter what, you’ll make it through okay!

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Final Thoughts on Relationship Advice from a Long-Married Couple

They say to trust those with life experience. And if that’s true, then this long-married couple of 72 years has some wise advice for younger couples.