In past times and now too i see so many marriages which ve become meaningless but continue just bcoz of social and family pressure. In past, marriages used to last more bcoz of social and family pressure and not bcoz of more compatibility/understanding.
After spending long times together a bond develops between even the uncompatible pairs and they start caring. It might also be a case of 'if not she/him where will i go'
But i have seen so many spoilt but surviving marriages which ve become a pain for the two partners. They conspire against each other, fight all the time and mess up the life of the kids. Should such a marriage get a medal for surviving. No way!
In todays scenario, people hurry out of relationships too. Now that also is a mistake.
The basic features could be-
1. understanding and acceptance for other persons needs, desires, feelings and emotions (after all you have yours)
2. influencing, manipulating, dominating, deliberately should be banned.
3. dont involve too many people in your marriage. In-laws, out-laws and all. Do your duty towards them but they are NOT part of decision making in your relationship.
4. focus on your work and what you wanna do.
Some people may trash my opinion based on my lack of experience (only 3yrs) but the success of our marriage is -in 3 yrs no issue between us has gone out of our room. There have been differences
(we like different soft drinks, she likes fanta and i like thums up) but no fights and no heated arguments at all. We enjoy each others company and the long drives and outings as much. We have not needed 'space'(a commonly used word these days)

My earlier response was a strong one coz i was upset with a 'conspiring against each other' kind of marriage in my vicinity in which kids were also being used in the conspiracy part. I really wish people wouldnot act so foolish.