Gabrielle Union On Her Marriage to Dwyane Wade Being Social Media’s Relationship Goals: “Stop Comparing Your Life”

In a push for Hallmark’s Put It Into Words campaign, Gabrielle Union sat down with EBONY to dish on the details of her highly publicized relationship with NBA star, Dwyane Wade.

In the interview, she revealed the importance of handwritten notes and cards, and how they’ve made a difference in her marriage, especially in the age of social media. 

“The thing about a card is that it requires effort,” she explained. “I can shoot off a text and not really have to put too much time or thought or effort into it. There’s something about leaving your house and going to the card aisle or Hallmark store to take the time to find the right card, which can [beautifully and concisely express] all of your thoughts.” 

“Honestly, when my husband sends a card, I know he put forth extra effort, and I appreciate it,” she added. “That to me feels way more special.” 

As Union continued, she shared a special moment between her and her husband, where he put forth that extra effort to show his appreciation for her. But, as she explained, she made it clear that what works for her relationship, may not work for everyone else, which is why people should refrain from hashtags like, “relationshipgoals” or “couple goals.” 

“Stop listening to people who have failed miserably at relationships as they offer relationship advice; that’s the first thing,” Union said.  “Second, my “perfect” relationship isn’t the next person’s. Stop comparing your life, your love and your marriage. Everyone [doesn’t] have to match for it to be real, amazing and beautiful. It only needs to be [those three things] to you. Don’t try to have a relationship for the sake of other people because you’re going to be empty inside.”

“Your relationship won’t have any substance because it’s all about show and not a deeper foundation,” the actress continued.  “Whatever that is or however that looks to you, there should be peace, grace and joy with anything you do, whether that’s a relationship, business, friendship or hobbies. Make sure that it brings you peace, that it allows you to have grace and that it brings you a ton of joy. How that takes shape, what it looks like, whom you chose, [is up to you].”