Avoid these mistakes newlyweds make

Not dealing with debt

We know it’s not very romantic, but there are lots of financial to-dos the first year — particularly if you want to set yourself up to buy a home within a few years. Money is the number one thing couples fight about; so deal with this touchy topic as soon as you can.

Three key reasons why you should deal:

— Unresolved money issues can breed resentment.

— Large amounts of debt are overwhelming.

— You don’t know how to chip away at big balances.

What to do: Get your wedding debt out of the way ASAP! Otherwise it will just be the foundation of future debt.

— Tell each other up front about your personal debt — because, for better or worse, you’re about to marry it!

— Set up a financial game plan for your future.

Alienating your friends

Friends make you happy, and that doesn’t change when you’ve got a ring on your finger — so remember to make room for them in your life (and not just your "couple friends").

Three key reasons why you ignore your pals:

— You’ve got a spouse — someone who’ll always get takeout with you when you want company.

— None of your friends can really relate to "married" issues.

— Hanging with your spouse is easier than making plans with your friends.

What to do: — Make it clear to them early on that they are a key part of your life. Invite people over, go out with them (and don’t always bring your spouse), and make a point to be social, even if your schedule is tight.

Not having enough sex

Sex is incredibly important to a good marriage. But over 60 percent of newlyweds surveyed were ALREADY in a sex rut!

Three key reasons why you skip the sex: It’s a busy time in your life; You’re not feeling great about yourself (we’ll get to that); You’re becoming complacent.

What to do: Have sex. Yes, even if you don’t want to. If you get in the habit of having it, you’ll probably enjoy it. Schedule sex. It should never be an afterthought.

— Talk about sex. Face the issues now, and get comfortable with talking about them.

— Get in the mood. Try to keep things a bit sexy between you, and don’t underestimate the power of flirting (send a provocative e-mail during the day — this is our Knot-tested best foreplay formula).