What does it take to make a marriage work? Tell us

Everyone who has ever been in a committed relationship is usually waiting for the 'happily ever after' part of it -- marriage.

But more often than not, 'happily ever after' usually translates into boring routines, squabbling and lack of real communication a few years into the union.

So we're asking you -- what does it take to make a marriage successful in the long term?

Is it compromise? Forgiveness? An active sex life?

After the wedding and the euphoria of that first kiss have died down, how do you keep your relationship working for you?

How do you overcome the stereotyped problems associated with a life commitment to your partner?

How do you balance having children, managing a career and spending quality time together as a couple?

We invite readers to share their tips with us. Post your five golden rules to make a marriage work on the messageboard below and/ or tell us about your experiences and opinions in this regard.