When you got married, you probably heard endless pieces of marriage advice. You were told not to go to bed angry, you were told to give each other 100 percent and I can almost guarantee you were told the first year would be the hardest.

While all of this advice is valuable, there are other things you need to know about tying the knot. Going to bed happy isn't going to carry you all the way through your marriage, so here are 12 more pieces of advice you shouldn't ignore:

1. Take responsibility for your actions

Don't play the blame game— it's not worth it. Make sure you take responsibility when you're wrong, apologize, forgive and move on.

2. Men and women work differently

Men like to fix things, and women need to be listened to. The sooner you can figure out how your spouse needs to feel love, the happier your marriage will be.

3. Work to fix every problem— even the small ones

Fix the small problems before they become big ones.

4. Never, EVER stop dating

Go on a date at least once a month. You and your sweetheart need that time together to unwind and have fun.

5. Don't forget to care for yourself

You can't fully care for your spouse unless you're taking care of yourself. Give yourself the time and attention you deserve.

6. Slow down and enjoy your journey

Sometimes you'll wish you could just fast forward through the hard times, but these times will make your marriage stronger if you let them.

7. Lean on each other when things are hard

You and your sweetheart will pull each other through some of the hardest times of your life, but you'll get through them because you have each other.

8. Laugh together

You and your sweetheart need to have fun together. Find time to relax and laugh about whatever you want; it'll bring you so much closer.

9. Always remember to thank your spouse

Saying thank you goes a long way, but sometimes we forget to thank the people who do the most for us. Genuinely thank your sweetheart for everything they do for you.

10. Don't try to fix each other

If you try to fix each other, you'll start to resent each other. Instead, constantly work to better yourself for your spouse, and you'll be so much happier.

11. Put each other first— for real

It's easier said than done, but your spouse needs to be at the very top of your priority list. Give them the best of you, not just the leftovers.

12. Don't forget to say "I love you"

Sometimes, we assume the people we love most know we love them. But it's so important to remind them just how much they mean to us.

If you keep this advice in mind, your marriage is sure to be absolutely incredible.