People come to us and say, “My spouse and I are so different that this marriage is never going to work.” We invite you to re-think that line of reasoning. While we would agree that it is extremely helpful to share the same core values—the same worldview—we would argue that other differences actually make you stronger as a couple.
In the movie Ocean’s Eleven a team was chosen to pull off a complex heist. Why was each individual chosen for the team? Because of their similarities? No! It was because of their differences—their specialties, if you will. It is the same in ballroom dance. While both dancers should always strive to excel in all areas, reality is that the strengths of one partner cover the weakness of the other. An example is when the flare of one is showcased in their partner’s quiet, graceful strength.
And that’s how it should be in marriage as well. Does your spouse differ from you in a particular way that you find annoying? Instead of being irritated, stop and ask yourself why they are that way and how that difference actually is a strength when viewed in a different context.
