It’s almost humorous to consider taking marriage advice from Hollywood celebrities. All the scandals, immorality, and trivial relationship problems filling headlines make it seem like they can’t figure out their own lives, let alone ours. Remember the “Brangelina” debacle? Case in point.
However, since Brad Pitt was able to distance himself from his rocky relationship with Angelina Jolie (after being married and raising a family together), he has surfaced with some powerful marriage advice – advice he wishes he had earlier.
1) Don’t Be So Quick To Give Up On Your Relationship
Pitt and Jolie are currently separated, but some rumors suggest they may try to work things out. In the midst of their divorce, they each shared a desire to try again. According to the couple’s biographer Ian Halperin: (1)
“In that moment they decided to make a fresh start. It was a ‘come to Jesus meeting’ that marked the beginning of a new phase in their relationship.”
Whether you choose to seek spiritual counseling or other methods of therapy, always try.
2) Love Unconditionally And Without Reservation
In an interview with GQ Style, Pitt unpacked his understanding of the cliché if you love someone, set them free. He said, “Now I know what it means, by feeling it. It means to love without ownership. It means expecting nothing in return.” (2)
Loving your spouse unconditionally is almost easier when you’re not constantly in the spotlight. You don’t have the pressure and judgment of the media always on your back. So be yourselves and love each other the best way you know-how.
3) Know That You Will Hit Rough Patches
There’s a reason the vows mention for better and worse. If you power through those tough times together, you will only come out the other end stronger than before. Pitt and Jolie’s biographer even said that “both of them realize they are happier together than apart.” (1)
4) Give Your Spouse Unwavering Support – Respect Their Decisions
In 2013, Jolie made the decision to get a preventative double mastectomy. While it took immense bravery on her part, Pitt also had to trust in the process and his then-wife.
“Support. Whatever’s got to be done to keep the family together and keep the family together as long as possible is gonna be done. This was her charge, no question. It’s a scary decision. There’s many things that can go wrong and go many different directions.”
5) Never Neglect Important Issues
When Jolie called Pitt and made him aware of her medical scare, he dropped everything. Doing anything else could mean the difference between a long life together and not having the chance to say goodbye. (3)
“I was out in France, and Angie called me and I got straight on a plane to return. Seeing my wife have to be her strongest and knowing that it’s the scariest news is terribly moving. And not being there is a horrible feeling.”
6) Appreciate What And Who You Have Every Single Day
Whether it’s the morning pot of coffee already made or the amazing family you’ve created together, giving thanks for what you have is so important. It’s too easy to get caught up in the busyness of life and miss out on family bonding experiences.
“I’m satisfied with making true choices and finding the woman I love, Angie, and building a family that I love so much. A family is a risky venture, because the greater the love, the greater the loss. That’s the trade-off. But I’ll take it all… One of the greatest, smartest things I ever did was give my kids Angie as their mom. She is such a great mom. Oh, man, I’m so happy to have her.”
7) Know Your Strengths And How To Take Direction
You do not always have to be the one making the calls and calling the shots. You may excel in some areas and need a lot of work in others. That intimidates some people, but trust us – a true leader also knows how to follow and serve others.
Although it was said in the context of movie direction, Pitt touches on this point: “I trust her with my life. She’s decisive, incredibly intuitive, knife-sharp, and, might I say, sexy at her post.” (5)
8) Give Praise Where Praise Is Due
Being a spouse is hard, but what’s harder? Being a parent. So, for any of our readers who have kids of their own, let them know how great they are at what they do!
“Angelina is just amazing. I’ll be tired and lie down on the sofa and then she’ll keep going until late at night. And that makes me feel like, ‘Why am I taking it easy?’ so I’ll go help out and play with the boys and get them to bed,” said Brad of Angelina’s parenting skills. “You realize that you always have the energy inside you, and as a parent you need to have a lot of willpower.” (5)
9) Reflect Daily On How You Can Love Your Spouse And Family Better
In light of his separation, Pitt did a lot of soul searching and self-reflection. In an unexpected revelation, while reflecting on his own emotions and father figure growing up, it hit Pitt: “I gotta be more. I gotta be more for them. I have to show them. And I haven’t been great at it.” (2)
10) Keep Improving Yourself
This marriage thing is hard and that’s all right. If you’re going through the trials and tribulations and it’s causing you to overthink or grow anxious, it’s because you care. It’s because you’re taking part in something beautiful – marriage. The more you develop yourself and help your spouse grow as well, the stronger that will make your relationship.
