Joan and Percy have been married for an impressive 17 years. Photo / Getty Images
Joan and Percy have been married for an impressive 17 years. Photo / Getty Images
Joan Collins is well known for having been married not once, not twice, but five times in her memorable 85 years.
Given the actress has moved through four failed marriages, many might wonder why on earth you would take advice on the topic from her.
It turns out Collins doesn't disagree with these critics either, writing for the Daily Mail that her past doesn't give her "the makings of a top relationship counsellor".
However, her fifth marriage, to Percy Gibson, 32 years her junior, has lasted 17 years.
Reflecting on their happy marriage of nearly two decades, Collins shared with the Daily Mail her advice a marvellous marriage. Here are 10 of her top tips:
"Because we were so compatible on every level and liked doing the same things, we had a strong foundation for a really good relationship and a happy marriage.
"He's my soulmate and that's what you should aim for."
2. Keep your own spaces
According to Collins, it is vitally important to respect each other's space.
When you share a home, she notes it's especially important to keep your own areas that are just for you.
"For me, it's my bathroom, with my lovely dressing table and my walk-in wardrobe. For Percy, it's his office (and, yes, his own bathroom).
"Here we can organise what is important to us in our individual ways, and I would never infringe or comment on his surroundings — much like he never does on mine," Collins added.
3. Accept each other's differences
"Always be aware that you are two completely different individuals, no matter how compatible you may be," writes Collins.
Even though partners may be like-minded about many things, they aren't always going to be on the same wavelength. But Collins notes this is actually a strength couples have and says people should "use it and capitalise on it".
"Of course you will have arguments — you're only human — but try to resolve them before you go to sleep, as the next day they may fester and lead to resentment. Don't slam the door shut on each other."
6. Appreciate the small stuff
Whether it's a cup of tea in bed or thanking your partner for a delicious home-cooked meal, it's important to never stop being grateful for the small things your partner does for you.
Collins notes: "Try to notice the little things and praise them, and you may find it is requited."
7. Always play nice
"Overlook trivial idiosyncrasies, and try never to criticise — much less insult — each other.
"Nasty jibes can lie dormant and metastasise into a cancer that will strangle your marriage," states Collins.
The actress, however, notes you should gently tease each other and joke around in order to maintain the fun, but always be cautious that you don't cross the "fine line" between being funny and offending the other person.
8. Be kind to their family and friends
While a frustrating mother-in-law or nosey best friend can be hard to handle for some, Collins says it's important to try to "actively enjoy and embrace" your partner's family and friends.
"But, above all, do not criticise or demean them — especially mothers! Remember that these are the people who surrounded and nurtured your significant other long before you met them, and are as important to him or her as you are."
Having a partner who you know has your back is key to a lasting relationship, writes Collins.
"If your partner is angry with their family, don't undermine him/her. You can always gently coax him or her to forgive and forget later, but always agree in the first instance!"
10. Say "I love you"
Most importantly, according to Collins, in addition to showing your partner you love them, you should verbalise this too.
"Most importantly, tell each other that you love one another as frequently as possible. Do it every time you say goodbye and every evening before you go to sleep."
