When (during his famous farewell address) the iconic Sachin said about his soul-mate, Anjali, in poetic fashion ‘Ours has been the best partnership’– it was tribute to the hard work and sacrifices, his less-famed life-partner unconditionally made for him. Likewise, many legends in business also have truly worked on their long term relationships – it’s said that when Bill and Melinda Gates started dating, he was CEO, founder of Microsoft while she was product manager. Now as co-equals, they decide and run their huge philanthropic organization together. As is the case with that unbeatable Indian duo of Nandan ‘Infosys’ Nilekani and Rohini Nilekani !
What about the many exemplary partnerships that we find among our own elders, relatives, friends that remain untold. While personal acquaintances in this category must remain unnamed, their strategies are so interesting. I’ve known one super pair, married for over four decades who’ve never been found to have a public spat or seen addressing the other loudly. In another remarkable power-equation, the lady (earning member) never stopped her immense respect for her man who mostly had no ostensible means of income and brought up a great family. In another unique case, there were partners bonding on everything they did together, movies, sports, music, food, fun-trips, yet able to amicably have different perspectives on things. There’s a couple in still yet another scenario, sending out their message – allow more space, be supportive of each other and stay happy ! All people who without much ado could find the right recipe to harmony at home.
So what’s the secret formula to the long-term success in marriage ? The answer that most experts give is there’s none – no two relationships are exactly like and different pairs should employ different strategies to achieve that elusive marital bliss and more importantly keep the flame alive. However, after many years of what is called that euphemistically ‘happy married life’ most people would say that the entire process is ‘an eventful journey which has many parts and parties to it with successes and setbacks galore, but there’s no single destination since the goalposts keep shifting ! In my humble opinion, be akin to a seasoned player at the crease in a cricket field, ever watchful (not taking things or others for granted ) playing your innings with as much camaraderie, compassion and inclusiveness that you can bring to the team !
Working on Living 