The first year of marriage is a transformative time for couples, filled with excitement, adjustments, and sometimes unexpected challenges. It’s a critical period that sets the foundation for the rest of your life together. While many couples experience joy during this phase, it’s also common to face marital issues. 

For some, this year may bring moments where they wonder, “Is my marriage falling apart?” How you navigate the first year of marriage can determine how the future unfolds, as this phase sets patterns in communication, trust, and expectations. Understanding why this year is important and how to overcome the obstacles it presents is essential to building a strong, lasting relationship.

Why Is The First Year Of Marriage Important?

Dr. Batra says, “The first year of marriage is like the pilot episode of a TV show. It’s a foundational chapter where you’re setting the stage for the rest of your journey together. Both partners are figuring out their roles, responsibilities, and habits, navigating unexpected plot twists like financial discussions or lifestyle adjustments, and learning to communicate better.” 

While this early phase can be filled with joy and excitement, it’s also a time to confront challenges head-on, because how you handle this year can have long-lasting implications. Much like a TV pilot determines whether a show will be picked up for future seasons, your first year of marriage sets the tone for the years ahead. Here are nine reasons why the first year of marriage is so important:

1. Setting expectations: The first year of marriage teaches you that your partner may have a very different idea of cleaning than you do. Spoiler: crumbs on the counter don’t count as clean
2. Communication patterns: You’ll discover how your partner communicates and argues. How you communicate during the first year of marriage sets the tone for future problem-solving
3. Building trust: Trust is developed in everyday moments. It’s the year of “Did you eat my leftovers?” When you can admit it was you, you’ve unlocked a new level of trust. In this first year, creating trust can prevent thoughts like “My marriage is falling apart” from creeping in later
4. Financial harmony: The first year of marriage often involves navigating financial issues and having discussions about budgeting, spending, and saving. These initial discussions can later prevent common marriage problems related to money
5. Conflict resolution: The way you resolve conflict in the first year of marriage will shape how you deal with future disagreements. Whether it’s arguing over toothpaste brands or how to manage finances, learning healthy conflict resolution can prevent bigger marriage problems down the road.
6. Intimacy and affection: The first year of marriage is where you’ll learn that cuddling doesn’t always lead to…you know. Sometimes, it just leads to snoring.
7. Routine setting: By month three, you’ll know exactly how your partner likes their coffee—and that sleeping in means until noon for one of you.
8. In-law dynamics: Managing in-law relationships can be a source of marital issues in the first year of marriage. Welcome to the “Yes, your mom’s curry is…great” era, where diplomacy is key, and white lies help.
9. Teamwork: Whether it’s doing laundry or picking Netflix shows, you’ll find out in the first year of marriage if you’re partners or just two people fighting for the remote

This year is all about setting the essential groundwork for the next 50 years—good luck!

Related Reading: What Is The Recipe For A Happy Marriage?

Why Is The First Year Of Marriage So Hard?

The first year of marriage is often described as one of the hardest years of marriage, even though it’s also a time filled with love, excitement, and new experiences. Picture it like a rollercoaster: thrilling, fast-paced, and full of unexpected twists and turns, but at times, it can feel overwhelming, especially when the safety bar—your sense of stability—seems a little loose. So, why is the first year of marriage so hard? There are several key reasons that contribute to the difficulty, which stem from both external pressures and internal adjustments.

1. Expectations vs. reality: You imagined romance and candlelit dinners, but suddenly you’re arguing about how to load the washing machine. These unrealistic expectations can make couples wonder, “Why is the first year of marriage the hardest?”
2. Adjustment phase: When sharing a bathroom becomes a daily test of patience
3. Compromise overload: Every decision, from what to eat for dinner to how to spend weekends, can feel like a negotiation. The continuous need to compromise can be exhausting, leading to moments of doubt like “I regret getting married.”
4. Financial stress: Managing money together can be stressful. Couples often face unexpected financial challenges, making them question, “How many marriages fail in the first year?” 
5. Time management: In the first year of marriage, balancing work, personal time, and together time feels like juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle. This can lead to feeling overwhelmed and wondering if “My marriage is falling apart.”
6. Identity shift: You’re not just you anymore, but part of a we, and balancing your sense of self with your new role as a spouse can feel like walking a tightrope. 
7. Unmet emotional needs: You expect your partner to magically know when you need support, but they’re not mind-readers. These misunderstandings can lead to marital issues. Cue the frustration when they bring you snacks instead of deep emotional validation!

These extra layers of adjustment only add to the rollercoaster of emotions, making that first year of marriage a mix of learning, laughter, and a little bit of “What did I just get into?” Just try to enjoy the ride!

How To Make The First Year Of Marriage Count

The first year of marriage is often compared to signing up for a team sport—one where you’re both rookies, and the rulebook seems mysteriously missing. You’re learning how to navigate life as a unit, balancing between the excitement of a new partnership and the reality of daily responsibilities. From mismatched socks to dinner debates that never seem to end, this initial phase is all about discovering the rhythm of your relationship.

But, just like in sports, the first year is crucial for building the foundation of your relationship that will carry you through the seasons to come. Every decision, every compromise, and every shared moment can either strengthen your bond or create unnecessary tension. The key is to make this year count—not by striving for perfection, but by cultivating habits and strategies that set the stage for a fulfilling marriage. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Master the art of compromise

The ability to compromise is essential to any healthy marriage, especially in the first year. Whether it’s deciding who cleans the cat’s litter or choosing the next Netflix series, compromise teaches you both to balance individual needs while maintaining harmony, thus preventing marriage problems. According to research by the Gottman Institute, couples who effectively manage conflict and engage in compromise are more likely to enjoy long-term marital satisfaction . Learning when to meet your spouse halfway fosters mutual respect and avoids resentment.

Related Reading: 9 Expert Tips To Compromise In A Marriage The Right Way

2. Laugh through the chaos

Arguments at 2 a.m. over things like the fan speed might seem trivial, but they are inevitable in the first year. Finding humor in these moments helps relieve tension. A study published in Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin found that shared laughter significantly strengthens relationship satisfaction and increases resilience to conflicts. Laughter lightens the mood and makes everyday challenges more manageable.

3. Communicate openly

Open communication is critical for resolving issues early, preventing them from escalating into bigger marital issues. Whether it’s admitting that you forgot the groceries for the third time this week or discussing future plans, being honest fosters trust. Dr. Batra emphasizes, “Couples who openly communicate—rather than bottling up emotions—tend to have more fulfilling relationships . The more transparent you are, the better your partner can understand and support you.”

4. Respect each other’s space

Dr. Batra advises, “While you love your spouse, it’s important to respect each other’s need for personal space. Spending time apart to pursue individual interests or simply enjoying quiet alone time can prevent feelings of suffocation and future marriage problems.” Having solo couch time now and then can strengthen your bond in the long run.

5. Be spontaneous

Adding an element of spontaneity helps break the monotony of routines and keeps the relationship exciting. Even small romantic gestures make a significant impact in maintaining enthusiasm for each other. These can look like:

• A post dinner ice-cream run
• A surprise date
• Dancing in the living room
• Giving your partner a gift without waiting for an occasion

Related Reading: 16 Ways To Show Affection To Your Partner

6. Keep dating each other

Just because you’re married doesn’t mean the dating phase is over. Make time for real dates to keep things fresh and exciting. According to a study by the National Marriage Project, couples who have regular date nights report higher levels of marital happiness and sexual satisfaction. Whether it’s going out to dinner or taking a day trip, continuing to date each other fosters a sense of romance and connection.

7. Support each other’s growth

Encouraging each other’s personal growth—whether it’s in career moves, hobbies, or self-improvement—is crucial for a strong partnership. Mutual encouragement not only strengthens the bond but also helps individuals grow both inside and outside the marriage.

Evelyn, a lawyer who got divorced, shared with us, “I used to work at a law firm. After getting married, the complete responsibility of the household fell on me, which became difficult to handle alongside my work. Also, I sometimes had to work late hours which my husband didn’t like. Eventually, the burnout and constant fights got to me. I realized that I regret getting married and decided to leave.” 

Related Reading: The 7 Fundamentals Of Support In A Relationship

8. Don’t shy away from tough talks

It’s tempting to avoid discussions about finances, future plans, or in-laws, but addressing these early prevents them from becoming sources of conflict later. According to a study from Kansas State University, financial stress is one of the top marriage issues leading to divorce. Regularly discussing difficult topics like money or long-term goals can alleviate tension and promote a healthier, more transparent relationship.

9. Create your own traditions

Unique traditions—whether it’s making pancakes on Sunday mornings or having Friday night dance-offs—create shared experiences that strengthen your relationship. These rituals can become fond memories that solidify your partnership.

A happy couple in their 60s shared with us that every time they resolve a fight they go out for chocolate ice cream. “It’s been a tradition since our first fight and has many times encouraged us to resolve the fight quickly so that we can move on to the sweet part of the deal.”

10. Embrace change

The person you married isn’t static, and neither are you. Embrace the natural changes that come with growth as individuals and as a couple. Accepting and celebrating change can enrich your relationship rather than becoming a source of conflict. These changes can include:

• Switching jobs or careers
• Finding a new hobby
• Changing appearances as you age
• Shifting opinions

What To Do If You’re Struggling In The First Year Of Marriage?

The first year of marriage is often romanticized as a blissful honeymoon phase but the reality can feel more like a battleground at times—think Hunger Games rather than fairy tales. The emotional highs and lows can catch you off guard, making you question why this year, in particular, feels so hard. 

Whether it’s due to financial stress, miscommunication, or adjusting to each other’s habits, the struggle is not just normal; it’s common. Many couples face doubts, asking, “How many marriages fail in the first year?” But don’t worry—this doesn’t mean your marriage is over. It’s just a phase of adjustment, and with the right approach, you can turn things around. If you’re experiencing thoughts like “My marriage is falling apart,” take the following steps to get back on track:

1. Communicate

Dr. Batra advises, “If you’re feeling frustrated because they left the dishes again, saying “Everything’s fine” doesn’t resolve the conflict. Open, honest communication is key.” Don’t avoid difficult conversations—address such marriage problems calmly and openly to resolve them effectively.

Related Reading: 11 Expert Tips To Communicate Better With Your Partner

2. Compromise

Learning to compromise can save hours of needless debates. Not every decision—like where to eat dinner—needs to be a battlefield. Meeting halfway on decisions prevents small disagreements from turning into major conflicts.

3. Set boundaries

Sometimes, setting personal boundaries—like asking your spouse to stop using your toothbrush—is essential for maintaining harmony. Establishing boundaries early can prevent small annoyances from escalating into larger conflicts . Clear boundaries foster respect and minimize unnecessary friction.

4. Have fun

If you can’t remember the last time you laughed together, it’s time to prioritize fun. Whether it’s sharing memes or watching silly YouTube videos, laughter boosts happiness and strengthens your connection. 

5. Prioritize intimacy

Intimacy isn’t just about physical closeness—it’s also about emotional connection. Sharing your thoughts, feelings, and day-to-day experiences fosters intimacy. Both physical and emotional intimacy are crucial for relationship satisfaction. Here are some ways to prioritize intimacy:

• Talk about your day
• Schedule quality time free of other distractions
• Plan dates every once in a while
• Make time for physical intimacy
• Don’t stop flirting with each other

6. Find a support system

Marriage can be challenging, and leaning on friends and family for support is beneficial. Studies show that having a strong social network can improve marital satisfaction by relieving stress. Whether it’s for advice or a laugh, connecting with others helps you maintain perspective.

Related Reading: Friendship In Marriage Strengthens Couple’s Bond

7. Stay patient

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a solid marriage. Expecting everything to be perfect in the first year can lead to disappointment. Instead, focus on long-term growth. Marriage is hard but worth it once you learn how to steer it together.

8. Seek professional help if needed

Seeking couples counseling doesn’t mean failure; in fact, couples who attend therapy often report better communication and higher marital satisfaction . Therapy provides tools for navigating conflict and promoting understanding. Bonobology offers a panel of experts that can help you navigate these marriage challenges. If interested, you can book a session online.

9. Keep a sense of humor

Humor helps diffuse tension and makes it easier to navigate disagreements. Research from the University of Kansas shows that humor and playful teasing enhance relationship quality and satisfaction. When things get tough, find a reason to laugh.

10. Learn to let go

Holding grudges only builds resentment. Forgiveness is a powerful tool for maintaining a healthy relationship. Dr. Batra shares, “Couples who forgive each other tend to have stronger, longer-lasting relationships. Letting go of minor annoyances allows you to focus on the bigger picture.”

11. Reflect on your journey

Taking time to reminisce about how far you’ve come as a couple can help rekindle romance. Revisiting those initial feelings reminds you of the joy you bring to each other. So take out time to remember:

• The first time you met
• Your first date
• Promises made in your wedding vows
• Tokens of love you’ve exchanged throughout the relationship

Final Thoughts

The first year of marriage can be one of the hardest years of marriage, but it’s also a time to build the foundation for a lifetime together. While many couples may feel overwhelmed by marital issues or even thoughts like “My marriage is falling apart,” understanding that marriage is hard but worth it can help navigate these challenges. With open communication, compromise, and a willingness to embrace change, couples can overcome common marriage problems and make this foundational year count. 

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