Let's face it, we are not all created equal when we decide to take the plunge and marry that sweetheart we've been dating for awhile. Often times after the honeymoon is over for awhile, things between the two of you start a long downward spiral that seems impossible to stop.

Here are things to do either ahead of a breakup or even after one that will help save your marriage or even if you haven't even gotten married yet, will help to keep you together when you are married.

First, assuming that you are married and still together but maybe having a few problems now and then, one of the biggest things that will make all the difference in the world is good communication with your spouse.

Notice I said GOOD? Finding the better qualities of your spouse and complimenting on them is a good way to divert a disagreement. If you are headed for an argument, take a time out until you both can feel the anger dissipate and just hold hands or touch each other very gently. This touching will stop the anger if done gently and recreate that bond and spark you both felt originally which will go along way towards helping you to save your marriage.

Second, learning how to communicate with the other and not criticize. Although you would like to argue with them and let them know that their point of view is completely wrong, Make sure that you do NOT criticize, take the high road and offer to establish some ground rules and gain some middle ground that is acceptable to both of you.

Third, There is a communications technique that will have each of you completely understand what the other is trying to say. It goes like this, when something is said to you, just repeat back to them "I heard you say that - then repeat back to them what they just said - is that correct?"Then simply let your partner do the same thing by saying back to you what you said. This will make sure that what you are saying is understood between the two of you without any misconceptions of the conversation.

Here's the bottom line. You promised to Love, Honor and Obey for better or worse, in sickness and health, so help you God. You have the privilege of being married to the one you love and the duty to save your marriage no matter how bad it seems. Remember, forgiveness is one of the most powerful and humbling things that you can do for your partner when they are feeling guilty for what was done that caused your marriage troubles.

Proper communication skills along with being reasonable about the others needs without thinking only of yourself will go a long way in helping to save your marriage or troubled relationship.