It’s the little things that mean the most
People are always looking for ways to improve their professional careers, parenting skills, and home organization. But what about the most important earthly relationship you have—your marriage? Marriage requires work, whether you’ve been married for 6 months or 40 years.
Here are some ideas for you and your spouse to consider in order to increase the quality of your relationship day in and day out (and to avoid this):
For the Men
- Respect her opinion and never talk down to her.
- Even if you don’t have kids, demonstrate that you will be a good father.
- Do what it takes for financial stability. No living paycheck to paycheck. Take an extra job if needed
- Keep her trust at all costs. Leave no gray area when it comes to other female relationships, money and your word.
- Conversation is not just for solving problems. She talks to you to see if you care. Listen like you do.
- Call, text or email her periodically during the day. She needs to know that you think of her.
- Even if you weren’t taught it, learn how to show affection in the way she desires.
- Give unexpected gifts at unexpected times.
- Use healthy humor to deflate petty conflict.
- Listen even when you don’t want to.
For the Women
- Pray for him.
- Believe in his capabilities and affirm his accomplishments. Make him feel like a man.
- Forgive and forget. Don’t hold grudges.
- All men appreciate a clean home and well-cooked meal.
- Don’t be late because of makeup, clothing or shoe choice. (Ouch!)
- Try not to call him at work just to chat. Men are not multi-taskers. (Oops!)
- He needs to know you trust his judgment, even when you aren’t 100% onboard.
- Either show interest in his hobbies or allow him space to participate freely.
- Give him half an hour to unwind after he gets home from work. Your evenings will be much more enjoyable.
- Don’t expect him to read your mind! He would if he could, but he can’t, so he won’t.
For Both
- Make decisions together about finances, disciplining the children, chores, vacations, etc.
- Share your daily expectations or prepare to be frustrated when something does not go as you planned.
- Fight fair. There will be disagreements. No name calling, threats or disrespect just to get a reaction.
- Don’t compare. The phrases “I wish you were more like…” and “You are just like…” are off limits.
- Schedule dates and romantic getaways. Seriously. Women love the anticipation.
- Let go of the small stuff. We all have annoying habits and preferences that are different from our spouse’s.
- Forgive and forget. Don’t hold grudges.
- Take time to share dreams and goals on a regular basis.
- Read the Bible together and pray aloud over each other. Words are strong, transforming and powerful.
- Continue to work on your relationship in good times and in bad.
List found here.
