Four Biggest Mistakes Made by Newlyweds

If you want to get your marriage off to a good start, avoid these common newlywed mistakes.

1. Ignoring Finances: Ideally, a couple should try and reduce or eliminate their personal debts before getting married. Since we don't live in an ideal world, many newlyweds enter marriage with credit cards, student loans, and other debts - which isn't bad if you have a plan. Prior to making wedding plans, put forth every conceivable effort to reduce your debt load. Once you tie the knot, sit down with your spouse, and craft a plan to eliminate personal debts and any wedding debt. This may mean passing on a few getaway trips or eating out less.

2. Putting on the Extra Pounds: There is nothing wrong with putting on a few extra pounds. Besides, gaining weight is a part of growing older. On the other hand, putting on excess pounds, or "letting yourself go," can start to impact your health and relationship. Even though marriage vows stated, "for better and for worse," it's fair to conclude that most married people want their spouse to stay fit and looking good after the wedding.

3. Forgetting About Single Friends: Getting married may mean the end of single-hood. But it doesn't mean you have to cut off your single friends. All too often, single people hang out with other singles, and married people with other married couples. However, you can break this vicious cycle and make an effort to stay in contact with all your friends. It's alright to hibernate for a month or so. Once the honeymoon is over, plan a night out with your friends. Since husbands need their "guy time," this presents the perfect opportunity to call up a few girlfriends and go out to eat. If you host a gathering at your home, mix up the group and include singles and couples.

4. Needless Fighting: Once couples marry and move in together, they begin to discover a lot of annoying quirks. Perhaps your husband displays selfish tendencies, or maybe your wife likes to lecture you. Whatever the situation, pick your battles carefully. Some issues merit a discussion, and some concerns can be left alone. Your spouse isn't perfect, and he or she will irk your nerves. Some newlyweds give up too easily and bounce at the first sign of trouble. Rather than running away from the problem, stick it out and don't set high expectations.