Any successful businessman, entrepreneur, or college graduate will tell you they were successful because they had a goal and a plan. If your goal is to protect your marriage from the worries that many couples face, then you need a plan for success. Here is a 3-step plan to help.

Step #1 - Open Communication

The best offense in warding off the intrusion of an affair is to have a rewarding, satisfying marriage that meets the needs of both partners. As you discuss ways to keep your marriage strong, you will garner strength to prevent an affair from happening. Thus, open communication is critical in your marriage.

It is also important to commit to letting each other know if you are feeling vulnerable or if a situation has the potential of turning in a direction that may get out of control.

Common situations that could create temptations are business trips, business parties or at work in general. It's important to discuss as a partnership what boundaries should be set to avoid undue exposure to temptation.

Step #2 - Resolving Money Matters

Statistics show that 43% of all married couples argue over money issues. This data speaks loudly of the major reason most couples fight. I

If one is frugal and the other spends money like its going out of style, it can't help but create problems in your marriage. Therefore, the earlier you and your spouse talk about spending habits the better.

It's important to establish spending expectations, set goals and decide on a short and long term financial plan for your family.

Step #3 - Take Time For Intimacy

Even though you both have busy schedules and you may not feel like you have enough time to get the basics done each day, take time to be intimate.

Sex is a basic human need that has to take priority over other things. As you set this as a priority, the other things in your life will fall into place as your marriage is strengthened.

Some of the most successful people know the importance of having balance in their lives. They are the ones that set aside time for their family, recreational activities and work.

By keeping a balance, you are able to side step marriage worries and be more effective in every aspect of your life.

As you include these steps in your marriage plan, you will find that most of the problems other marriages face are not even a concern to you and your spouse.