The secret to your success is who you marry.

According to a study published by researchers from Carnegie Mellon University, people with supportive spouses are “more likely to give themselves the chance to succeed.” This is a fact. Do you realize that many prosperous people have discussed the value of having their spouse by their side throughout their career? Former President Barack Obama associates his political success with his wife, Michelle. “Obviously, I couldn’t have done anything that I’ve done without Michelle,” Obama told Oprah Winfrey in 2011. “You were asking earlier what keeps me sane, what keeps me balanced, what allows me to deal with the pressure. It is this young lady right here… Not only has she been a great first lady, but she is also just my rock. I count on her in so many ways every single day.”

Barack Obama would have never been President without Michelle Obama telling him, “try even when you failed, I’ll always be there.” Bill Gates wouldn’t have created Microsoft without his wife Melinda Gates telling him, “I got you, hun, and I will always support you even if it doesn’t work.” Marry a person who believes in your dreams and who’s willing to support you even when you failed. The men/women in our lives should push us to be our best, not try to see our worse. Success starts with a marriage that’s willing the sacrifices, win, or lose.