The Work and the Joy of a Good Relationship
Sometimes we imagine that marriage does not take work, and instead that it will be pure bliss because we have found our true love. Judaism understands that just as a relationship with God takes constant nurturing, vigilance, and the initiative to capitalize upon opportunities for growth, so, too, do human relationships. Like a muscle, if they are not cultivated and used they will atrophy. The reason you married your bashert was that you love them and love spending time with them. Remember this even after the initial bliss wears off.
Get into the habit of making a date night once a week. If you do not have children, it will feel like every day is date night, but this will get more difficult as you get back into your jobs, real life, and especially after you have children. Even if it's just going out for coffee, studying a piece of Torah together, taking a walk, or discussing a book, setting aside time on the calendar is important.
The sacred bond between husband and wife always binds you even though you are not together every minute. This bond does not magically stay with you; you must be smart and considerate about your relationship. Just because you love someone does not mean it is going to work, and just because you have a great relationship does not mean it will stay that way forever. Relationships, like children, require attention and feeding.
