Copied! Prioritizing family members is a difficult task, especially in a blended household. Remember that prioritizing your spouse does not imply that you love him or her more than your own children. Blended families have a low success rate, according to statistics. When it comes to busy families, it's frequently the simple things that make the largest difference. Including your spouse in important decisions can help reduce conflict between family members. Spouses who are treated with respect and honor will most likely return the favor. Putting your spouse first means giving him or her equal status with yourself and your children. This doesn't mean that your spouse should be paid the same as you or that he or she should always get what they want. It does mean that you consider how your spouse feels before making any major decisions. In a blended family, it's important to show affection to all family members. This may include phone calls or e-mails to non-blood relatives to show that you care. Visiting each other's homes and taking an interest in each other's lives helps strengthen bonds between family members. Putting your spouse first doesn't mean that you neglect your children. It just means that you give them both the attention and respect they deserve. Providing material goods such as food, clothing, and shelter while showing appreciation for their efforts are also important factors in building a strong marriage relationship. Spending time together as a couple is essential for maintaining a strong marriage bond.