With the holiday season not too far behind us, I would like to share a marriage lesson that I stumbled upon during our travels.

Whether it is just you and your spouse traveling, or if you have the kiddos tagging along, traveling can be stressful on your marriage. You are usually short on sleep or food, you’re lost, you’re late, etc., etc. Tempers can flare, and feelings can be hurt.

I discovered one sure-fire way to help lessen the stress. Compliment your spouse. This works in two ways.

First, use kind words to tell your spouse something that you appreciate about him specifically related to your trip. For example, I am in charge of packing all the bags and putting everything by the door. My hubby is responsible for packing the car and making sure everything fits. He is really talented in using every space available to make sure it all fits securely. I made a point to let him know that I appreciate that skill.

The second way to compliment your spouse during your travels is to work as a team. Divide responsibilities. This is especially important if the kids are traveling with you. In that case, it’s divide and conquer.

Make sure each of you knows who is in charge of food, directions, gas fill-ups, even who has change for tolls (if you’re driving). This approach ensures that one spouse isn’t carrying the entire stress of the trip. I also find that I worry less about the things that are my hubby’s responsibility, allowing me to relax and enjoy the trip a little more.

And hey!  Go compliment your spouse. Use kind words to show your appreciation. Work as a team. And enjoy the journey the two of you will take.

Photo Credit: stock.xchng, mbylow