Being a better wife is something I have to remind myself of often. In a way being a mother is something that comes naturally for me. Not meaning that I consider myself an above-average mom that knows exactly what I'm doing (because most of the time I have no clue what I'm doing), but natural as in my motherly instincts seemed to have come with the birth of my first child. I naturally want to do all that I can to bring about her health and well-being. I naturally hurt when she hurts. And I naturally try to do little things throughout the day to bring that smile that I love so much. There are also those times that I just happen to know that she is hurting and what is causing it. The connection I have experienced in being a mother has been an incredible experience.
Confession time: Being a wife does not come as naturally for me. You might have guessed that from previous posts. It takes more of an intentional effort to make sure that I am also loving and serving my husband and taking care of his needs as well. It's not natural for me to wait at the door with my apron on and Pinterest-worthy dish in hand waiting to greet him with a hug and kiss. Heck…it's a good day when I actually prepare a lunch for him to take to work. Sadly, there are too many days that I exhaust all my energy on my toddler that by the time he gets home all he is greeted by is “tired wife,” “grumpy wife,” or “please take our toddler from my arms wife.” There have been too many nights that I have gone to bed with the thought, “Dang it. I need to be a better wife.”
I guess that's just one of the problems that comes with “marrying up.”
Anyway…this last month of pregnancy I have tried really hard to focus on being a better wife. I know well enough from the last time I had a newborn that it can be hard on both of us as we tend to forget about each other and focus all our energy on the new little human bundle.
At home with the kids? Instantly access any of these printable activity bundles to keep them learning!
DISCLAIMER: Due to recent comments, I feel I should clarify: This is something that I personally had fun with because I have a husband that helps out and does a lot for me. I felt like I hadn't focused on him as much during my pregnancy and wanted to think of little things I could do so that he knew how much I appreciate him. He would still be the great husband he is even if I did not do all these things. This post is in no way expressing the view that men are “above” women, or that relationships are one-sided. Obviously it takes two to make a happy and successful relationship. This post does not include ways husbands can serve there wives because the majority of my readers are women.
Here are some habits I have tried to work on (and am still trying to incorporate):
How to Be a Better Wife: 30 Day Challenge
This post should really be titled, “How to Be a Better Spouse,” since most of these principles work both ways, but since the majority of my readers are female, we are just going to stick with the “Better Wife” title.
One of my favorite things anyone ever said to me was “You LOVE those whom you SACRIFICE most for.” I have noticed first hand that when I start to think about myself more, my love for my spouse (and myself ironically) is less. So that is my main motivator behind this challenge. To train myself to sacrifice more for the man I love most.
I've broken these down into weeks to make it a monthly focus and help generate some ideas, but obviously you don't want this to feel like a “checklist.” Just work on different principles as they fit into each week.
WEEK ONE: BE INTERESTED IN WHAT HE LOVES TO DO
- Watch Sports with him. My husband is obsessed with soccer. It doesn't interest me as much, but I have shown more interest and attended games with him, even when my pregnant body tells me that I do not want to stand through another soccer game. Surprisingly, I have started to enjoy soccer a lot more and I really do enjoy that time with him.
- Ask him about his day/work. Show interest in what he does everyday.
- Give him time to unwind. I've heard that men need 20-30 minutes when they first get home to just relax and transition from work to home. This is not the time for us wives to dump all of our frustrations on our husbands (something I'm still working on :)). Depending on your husband, this may not even be the time to talk about his day.
WEEK TWO: LOVE HIM IN A WAY THAT HE LOVES
- Respect him. Ask for his advice. Let him be a leader. Men like to know that they are valued and they love to fix things, so let him know you value what he has to offer.
- Offer to help him. Find a way to work by his side at something you normally wouldn't. I think my husband would fall over dead if I offered to help him with the yard work. Unfortunately this is hard to do unless our toddler has gone to bed already, but once I've recovered from this upcoming birth I plan to find ways to help out.
- Know his love language. My husband particularly feels loved by letters/words. One day this last month I sent an email to him at work praising him for the man that he is and letting him know how much I love him. Sadly, I did this a lot more when we were dating and first married. It's time to kick things up a notch!
- Point out his strengths. Point out specific examples and ways that he influences others lives. I notice all the time how well my husband interacts with teenagers and those he teaches. The youth just love him. Sometimes we notice things but never make them vocal. It's good to know that your spouse sees your talents.
- Be his sexy wife! This is currently one of the hardest since being in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy feels as close to sexy as stretch marks, gas, and heartburn feel to beauty. As tempting as it might be to stay in your sweats all day skip out on the mascara, don't do it. Men are visual. And getting yourself ready for the day isn't just for your husband. There is a confidence and motivation that comes to us as women when we get ready for the day and make ourselves presentable. Love your body and take care of it. I know personally that when I am eating right and exercising, I am also positively affected emotionally and mentally–not just physically.
WEEK THREE: PRAY
- Nothing seems to help me be a better wife more than prayer. If I struggle with patience or kindness, then I pray specifically to be more patient or kind. I've noticed that when I am truly sincere in my prayers, added strength truly does come.
- Pray in your husband's behalf. Pray for his happiness. Pray for his strength. Pray to be inspired to the best ways to love him. Here is a cute printable bookmark with 10 ways to pray for your husband.
WEEK FOUR: BE LOVEABLE
- Try and remind him of the lovely girl that he married. Sometimes something comes out of my mouth and I think to myself “I would have never said that when we were dating.” My husband most likely married me because he thought I was kind, caring, and maybe even insightful or inspiring at times. I often need to remind myself to be the girl that he fell in love with. Sometimes this means less sarcasm and more kindness.
- Be happy. It's hard not to be happy yourself when you are around someone who radiates a happy and cheerful heart. Be positive and focus on the things you are blessed with. If you are particularly annoyed with your husband, focus on the things you love about him. This doesn't mean you ignore issues that come up, but if you address them with respect, success will be much more easily achieved.
- Let go of expectations. No one likes doing something for another person when they are expected to do it. When I was first married, my husband always did the dishes after dinner. The first few times that he went to bed without doing them I remember being shocked. Slowly over time he didn't do them every night like he used to. I remember questioning the change and he let me know that he didn't enjoy doing it when I expected it of him rather than appreciating the service. OUCH. As women especially, we can do better at appreciating more and expecting less.
- Avoid criticism and let things go. This was mentioned in a previous post on fighting in marriage. Marriages that survive and thrive have a ratio of 5 to 1 when it comes to positive experiences. Make sure that you are praising and adoring at least 5 times as much as you are complaining or bringing up concerns.
WEEK FIVE: Be unpredictable and find ways to surprise him
- Since there aren't a full 5 weeks in a month, spend a few specific days being a better wife by randomly surprising your husband with something special. You are the one to know what this would be. Take him back to the days that you dated and remind him why it all started. Be his best friend and create some fantastic memories.
- Have fun and make memories. Sometimes it's hard to get out of the house for an “official” date when you have kids, but do it as often as you can. If it's hard to get out, read my post on ideas for fun and affordable dates at home.
I've noticed a great bonus to working on being a better wife: My husband naturally reciprocates and does kind things in return! As I increase in kindness and respect, so does he…which only makes me want to keep trying!
30 Days to a Better Spouse Marriage Course
Many of you have written me with your various questions concerning relationships and marriage. This sparked a desire in me to learn as much as I could so that I could inspire as many marriages as possible. It has become my passion. This post on “How to Be a Better Wife” was written FOUR and a HALF YEARS AGO! In those 4 1/2 years, I have spent hundreds of hours reading books, attending conferences and interviewing marriage counselors in a quest to find out how to be a better wife (or husband) and just what makes certain marriages more healthy than others, so that I could teach others.
Take the 30 Days to a Better Spouse Course now and transform your marriage!
What are your Favorite Ways to Show Love your Husband?
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Beth says
Thanks for this. I was inspired and just wrote my husband an encouraging e-mail at work. I really understand how you feel, that being mom comes so much more naturally to me than being wife. This was such an inspiration, to do what I can, when I can.
Maigan says
I’m going to try this!We also have a toddler and I am 18 weeks pregnant with crazy hormones. My husband has loved baseball all his life and has recently joined a baseball team on Sundays I complained of course thinking how this would affect me when I should be more supportive, reading this has really made me think about the wife iv become and the wife I want to be… So thank you !
Tina M says
Maigan, thanks for stopping by! I hope you have fun with this! Just remember we are also good at being hard on ourselves. I’m sure you are an amazing wife, although pregnancy seems to do a good job of making us feel otherwise 😉 good luck with the baby, and congrats!
brittany says
Hi Tina, You may be interested in Royal Rife and the rife frequencies. I have nothing to gain from this but it could be what you are looking for. Hilda Clark as well. Best, Brittany
Cass says
Why is there always “better wife” articles or “wife 101” and “Serving your husband!” articles? Where are the “Better husband” posts? I’m married, and have been for quite awhile, and it takes two to make the effort for a better marriage. Its not just on the wife’s shoulders. The husband should want to help out and take the baby at the end of the day, and love you no matter what you wear. Honor you every day for just who you are and what you do. I would NEVER say i serve my husband. He is not above me. We’re a team. I expect him to pitch in and realize family is a unit with two equal partners. Not a head and a servant.
Tina M says
I agree with you completely Cass! I don’t “serve” my husband, we serve each other! My “30 days to a better wife” is simply my effort to try and catch up with the great husband and father that he is. He’s very good at taking his turn with the kids, and helping around the house, and making trips to the grocery store. I would never suggest that one is greater than the other and I also believe that it takes both partners actively participating to make marriage happy and enjoyable. The reason you see so many articles about being a good wife rather than the other way around is probably because there are a lot of “mommy bloggers” out there. I apologize that you misunderstood the intent of this post, I do not for a second believe that men are “above” us as women and feel that viewpoint is wrong!
E says
It’s only when we humble ourselves that we can truly be loving. I’m a pretty strong woman, but I’m no good to God or my husband if I’m not willing to have a servants heart. I love this post 🙂
Amanda Hay says
I love your post! You go girl 🙂
Tina M says
Thanks! Glad you stopped by!
Lauren Waters says
I agree with Cass. Also, why should women alone appreciate more and expect less? I think we must hold our husbands to that same standard. This list makes it sound like they have a right to expect more from us as their wives. If a wife stopped fulfilling a task because she no longer felt appreciated for it, nothing would get done. Like, EVER. So if I’m going to work on being his sexy, appreciative wife, he should work on being my sexy, appreciative husband. We should honor, encourage, and appreciate each other regardless. Relationships are made up of all kinds of personalities and temperaments so I guess you just need to find what works for you. Though I do think most women are already doing the very best they can! 🙂
yeoldonion says
I disagree that all woman are doing the best they can in this area just as much as I would disagree all men are living up to expectation. Each situation is different and comparing your marriage with mine, or anyone else’s is what leads to problems. Is your husband not helping around the house or not showing you affection? This would not mean that the house next to you has the same issue. In fact, it might be the man in that house isn’t getting what he expects from his wife in that situation. Each marriage is different and no article is 100% accurate for all marriages. You take away from an article what you need rather than trying to apply it all to your situation. I am a stay at home dad who does 80% of the housework and is the one tired when my wife comes home. There are not too many articles that I can take away everything they are telling me but in reversing the logic I find I learn a lot about both myself and the role I am filling. I will say that as a husband staying at home I do expect more from my wife emotionally and physically. It is a thought process that I try to come to grips with as the expectations tend to be unfair to her. She is working too and I need to remind myself of that at times. Marriage is a constant work in progress and really to be successful both parties just have to keep trying.
dee says
i do have this stubborn streak where i do not want it to become just a one way street.
My husband is very overwhelmed atm but the thing is he has the idea that he can be overwhelmed and just not have to deal with it but i am overwhelmed daily and i have to soldier on.
i want to be a better wife but how can i focus on this when he is not willing to accept to try to be a better husband?
Jill says
However, the Bible clearly states the man is the head of the household. He is to be the spiritual, financial and emotional leader of the marriage. Remember woman was made from Adams ribs. What is the job of the rib? To protect the heart. Thus it is the woman’s job to protect the heart of the husband. With this being said, it is not meant to be for the wife to be a doormat. My husband and I are equal partners and we serve each other as we serve Jesus.
mandy says
Yes the rib protect the heart but if we are the rib that protects the mans heart who is protecting ours? Yes the man is intended to be the head of the house hold but I think the meaning of that is the protector and provider though in 2013 most women do that them selves. I for one do not need a man to protect me or to provide for me but I do let my husband think I do to boost hi ego a bit. It gives him gratification to think that I need him to protect me and to provide for me so I play me strengths down at times.
Dollyknapp says
I like what Jill said about hat the bible says
Christy says
“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” There are times in any marriage when things get out of balance, and everyone seems to be out for themselves. To turn that around I truly suggest you try some of these suggestions without expectations. In time it sucks because your husband may not even notice. If you stay patient, and consistent at putting his needs first (or at LEAST as important as yours) i believe you will see a change in your husband. There are multiple books on marriage to support this theory available in any book store you walk into. I think Tina hit it head-on when she mentioned the part about the husband’s expectations about doing the dishes. If you do things for a week or two and there is no change if you blow up and say ‘I’ve been doing this, this, and this for two weeks and you haven’t even noticed’… well, that defeats the purpose. Work on being a better wife, and with time he should take notice and be inspired by you and work on being a better husband.
These are just my thoughts and experiences in my marriage and working with multiple groups of couples throughout the years to help guide them in different aspects of their lives. Please do not take this as a personal attack, I just have seen this model work over and over. It will go back to being out of balance soon after someone starts putting their needs first again, and this is why it’s a constant thing to do and keep in check – not just a check list. The books ‘The Love Dare’ and ‘The Five Love Languages’ would be great places to start if you need it (I’m fond of the Love Dare, because it has intentional things to do daily, It’s all about what you can do to change your marriage).
Tina M says
Great recommendations on books Christy!
Jakki Robbins says
Then write one. Women do not write on being a better husband.
elizabeth says
I agree, Cas. This is exactly what I think when I see these articles float across pinterest. The reason there are so many of these, and not many “better husband” articles is because the majority of men don’t think to write them, read them, pin them, or share them. It bothers me that all these women are sitting at home guiltily reading this and vowing to do better when they’re most likely already doing the majority of the emotional work in their homes, trying so hard to make sure their spouse is happy and their marriages stay together, while the husbands are completely oblivious that their wives care so much, or that their wives are are really the reason their marriage is still alive and well. I’m just saying. It seems like it’s the nature of women to feel like they can be doing more and to blame themselves when things aren’t what they could be. I love my husband and I do try to be aware of his needs. We work things out through communication and I know that if there’s a problem, he will tell me. I acknowledge that I initiate much of the change and bettering of our relationship, and I don’t feel like I need to read something like this to do a better job… And why in the world can’t this article be named “30 days to a better Spouse?” I think more people would benefit and appreciate it if it was written to all married people.
Carissa says
I do serve my husband as he serves me. If you don’t like the post don’t comment on it no need for people’s negativity. I know so many couples who the husband does so much and wife is a lazy ass that doesn’t appreciate the fact that she gets to stay home it truly is a privilege to get to stay home with my daughter and soon to be newborn son especially in the times we are now where most couples both have to work to live the life they live. And it goes both ways with amazing wives and lazy ass husbands. She wrote her post like this because she is the wife it’s not for her to write about being a better husband that’s a husbands job. Pretty simple.
Sarah Marie says
I agree with you! Geeze why are these women so defensive! If the article doesn’t apply to you then move along! I married an amazing man and I am far from perfect as a wife and I love these articles because they remind me to honor my amazing husband and give me ideas on how. Thank you for writing this article I love it!
Andra says
I just stumbled onto your post, and I am truly grateful for your reminder. I too “married up” and have a wonderful thoughtful husband who does all he can to fulfill his role as a father, husband and patriarch in our home. Your list gives me ideas on how I can be more creative in SHOWING how much I appreciate what he does. He is showing me how much he appreciates my efforts when he jumps in to help after a long day of work and school, and this is the least I can do for the man who makes our whole world go round.
Diana Johnson says
I saw this on my pinterest page and let me tell you how grateful I am to have pinned it! EVERY marriage needs work and some tender love and care, this blog helped me see a little clearer. Thank you so much for you insight, after reading this I have incorporated it into my own marriage and it has changed my life!! You are so right we do serve each other and we need to remember why we fell in love. There are way too many people who claim ” Well, we just fell out of love!” I think its bull, If everyone man and women read this page and then did it, holy cow there would be a lot more happy marriages and less divorces. Thank you so much, I truly am so grateful for you.
Tina M says
Wow, thank you so much Diana! Blogging puts me in what feels like a vulnerable position sometimes when I do more personal posts because I never know what kind of response I will get. Thanks, I’m so glad you found it useful 🙂
Jennifer B. says
Hi Tina! Thank you for your transparency. Please be encouraged by the women who gave you positive feedback because we can all love better regardless of what our husbands are like. My husband does a lot for our family. He is the most incredible man I’ve ever met but he tells me a lot of who he is comes from my cheering him on. I always need a lot of help but we can help them be the men God created them to be by supporting and SERVING (I’m not afraid of that word) I enjoyed your post and will be trying to be more intentional about this
Amy says
Giving service to another is not the same as being a servant. Why are people always so willing to show kindness and charity to others outside of the home, but when it comes to our family, it is classified as “work”…like we are slaves? Whenever I have stepped it up and given service to my husband, I have found that my efforts are reciprocated. He steps it up…which is really hard for me because I too married a man who gives and gives! Unfortunately, there are just some men (and women) who only focus on their own needs. I made the mistake of marrying one the first time around. Regardless of any effort on the man’s part, giving is an attribute of a fulfilling life. If you’re doing it just to get something in return, you’ll never be satisfied!
Tina M says
Thanks Amy, you summed up how I feel in a way I couldn’t find words for!
Nancy Miller says
Thank you! It good to be reminded of loving our husbands in physical ways not just thinking it or saying it.
I shared the video with my husband and friends a week or so ago. My husband used it on me … He said “It’s not about the Nail” … I hadn’t realized that I always try to suggest ways to resolve his problems. He just wanted me to listen. … A bit of role reversal here … It was an OUCH! Bc I’m usually saying I just want you to listen. Thanks again.
Christy says
You basically described my marriage (minus the kid part). My husband is generous, thoughtful, and kind. Me… not so much. He has made me want to be a better person, and I have come a long way. Your post made me realize that I still have progress to be made, and I appreciate the suggestions!
Lana says
Wow, I find it to be a privilege to serve my husband! He’s a hard working man who takes care of me and of our children, I love him with all my heart and was made to be his help meet….He is a wonderful husband and thanks for these new ideas to incorporate into my life so that I can try to show him just how special he is to me!
Melanie says
Great ideas. We have to remember, our family begins when we say “I do,” not when we hear “PUSH!” Our first call is to our husbands, not to our children. Kids are a close second, but we are first commanded to cleave to our husbands and they to us. Common sensibly: from the time our kids are born, our goal is to successfully rear them TO LEAVE US and cleave to their own spouses–and my husband is who is by my side, not my kids. Also, if you tend to your marriage consistently, when rough times come up (and they will), it is that much easier to fight for and struggle through so you come out on the other side in tact and with a stronger bond. 3rd reason (and this is a biggie for us moms): our kids benefit ENORMOUSLY from seeing a loving, respectful, balanced partnership from their parents and they then search for their future spouse based on the example we set. Therefore, first cultivate your marriage relationship.
Again great ideas, and things I’ve really focused on over the last 2 years of my 18 year relationship with my husband (and we still have 8 years before our oldest leaves for college). It’s never too early–or too late– to start this!
Tina M says
Melanie,
Thanks for your comment. I couldn’t agree more about putting the spouse above the kids. There are so many studies to support this. Kids flourish when they know mom and dad are committed to each other first.
Betsy says
This year was my husband’s 30th birthday, and it wasn’t something he was looking forward to. Instead of one big gift, I decided to plan something for every month! Just before the new year, I bought 12 greeting cards — including a birthday card, Christmas and anniversary card. The rest were either blank, funny or romantic. Along with the card with a monthly note, he also gets a number-themed gift: January was volume “1” of a graphic novel series, February was “2” tickets to Disney (free, because a friend hooked us up with tix!) March was “3” scratch off lotto tickets, April was “4”Rivers (a bbq place here), May was “5” car washes, and June was “6-pack” of beer from another state that isn’t available here. (I planned all of the numbers ahead of time, and wrote them down on tiny slips of paper and put them in the numbered envelopes, so I wouldn’t forget!)
The thing that surprises me most about this project is not just the look of sheer delight on my husband’s face when he sees his next card– he gets giddy and so happy with whatever it is! Instead, it was the way that it connected us even more, on a deeper level. Each of the gifts is about HIM and HIS interests, not mine. Just the little bit of planning ahead has meant so much to him– he keeps every single card in our bedroom in a row. It’s also been great because I choose different times of the month to surprise him, so I can time it for when he especially needs a reminder of how much I love him.
Even though I bought all the cards ahead of time, I don’t write in them until I’m ready to give it to him. That way, each note is unique and thoughtful, and I write about a different aspect of our relationship based on recent events. The look in his eyes says it all.
Again, it takes planning ahead, but it is SO worth it. I recommend it for any special anniversary year or birthday!
Tina M says
Betsy! This is such a fun idea. I did something similar, but I had a gift for each “hour” on his birthday. I think I like your plan better.
Helen says
Betsy, what a great idea! When my husband and I were dating, he had to leave to work out of town. I made up a recipe file box and put in 90 reasons I loved him, what I was missing about him, etc…One for each day he would be gone. But since we have been married (nearly 14 years now) I am sad to say that I don’t do those ‘romantic’ things nearly as much as I should or did.
I will be doing your cards of love and appreciation starting now! Thank you for your inspiration!
And Tina…thanks for your blog and your bold words of loving and “serving” your husband…it is a ministry that I strongly believe in. It does not make us weak as wives…it is empowering and loving! And what we receive in return, not only from our husbands, but from God is amazing.
Marissa says
I love this! For all the women complaining about this post, you need to understand that the person you need to start with is yourself. There is nothing wrong with trying to be the best wife that you can be for your husband. How selfish of you for saying that your husband needs help also. Start with yourself and he will probably follow on his own without you needing to nag to him that you are “equal partners”. Love is selfless. Maybe try a little more giving and a little less getting.
Kristi says
I really enjoyed this read. I am a 45-year-old newlywed with a teenage son and a special needs daughter. My husband is wonderful, but I sure came with a handful. I learned a lot in my first marriage (of 18 years). Why anyone would not want to serve their husband is beyond me. We serve others at school, work, strangers, etc. every day through little acts of kindness. We should put our family above all others, starting with our spouse. Thank you for this reminder. My husband love me and makes me feel cherished. I need to remind myself that I should make him feel cherished always, even if he is having a not so cherishing day. lol.
I’m sorry, Tina, that you have received any criticism over what you have written. It’s not about changing others, it’s about being a better you. I think some people are threatened by self examination.
Congratulations on your expanding family!
Tina M says
Thank you Kristi!
Tahsin says
I agree
Stephanie says
I’m definitely bad about handing over the toddler when hubby gets home, when I’m sure all he wants to do is shower and rest for a few minutes. I’m going to try this, because he does all of these things for me! Thanks! That video was hilarious by the way!
Tina M says
I hear ya Stephanie! And even though I know he deserves some “wind down” time, I still have days when the toddler gets thrown his way the moment he walks in the door. Luckily, he’s pretty good about it 😉
Jodi says
Fabulous advice! I think women sometimes spend too much time and energy concentrating on what their partner should be doing for them….when in all reality, when we do a few simple things for our husbands, they jump up to give us what we need. It took me entirely too long to figure this out! Set the selfishness aside, and invest a little time and love in your husband and reap the rewards.
angela kirkland says
Thank you! My husband tells me all the time lately that I’m no fun and not the carefree girl he fell in love with. I thought he was exaggerating but after reading your post… sadly I know now he is right. But I feel better about it knowing its not just me!
egee says
For those that ask, “why do I have to be a better wife” or “take wife 101” all I have to say to that is one of my favorite quotes. .. “Be the Change you want to See in the World” or Even better lead by example… Put out positive energy and maybe you’ll get some in return and if you don’t at least you know you tried. .
Cass says
That is true. But I’m not trying to change the world. I’m working on having a happy marriage. And to me equality is everything, in every aspect of my life.Why would i want to be married to someone who didn’t try and share an equal workload? When i could be married to someone who saw me as a partner, not someone who should be trying in every way possible to make HIS life easier. I love my husband, and he is excellent at making sure I don’t take on to much and i do the same for him. I feel like alot of old fashioned gender roles are still in affect and that is just not for me or my marriage. If i work a full time job, as does my husband, why would it be expected for the wife to cook? We alternate, or cook together. I know alot of people in my life think this is odd.To me, anything less would be unacceptable. For us, this works. We are very open minded people 🙂
Tina M says
Ladies! Thank you all for your responses! And Cass, what’s important is you are doing what works for the two of you. All of us have different marriages and different things that make us happy. I’m glad so many of you have found this post helpful and I hope you have fun with it, that’s what it’s for!
Jennifer says
Tina,
Thanks so much for your “Post” and for all your replays. You truly seem like a professional and selfless woman. I loved this list and I am always looking for ways to be the best wife for my husband because I love him and I want to. I want to make him happy and that makes me happy.
Know so many women got so much from this post. 🙂
Tina M says
Jennifer, thank you so much. I’m glad you stopped by. I hope you and your family had a happy Sunday!
Helen says
I feel that some people may misunderstand what serving means. I know that it sounds “old-fashioned” and “traditional” but it doesn’t mean doing all the traditional “woman’s work” of old. When you are doing things for your husband and family that means something to them, something that encourages, inspires or makes them feel loved…you are serving them! And in Cass’s case, it sounds like she has a great marriage. I also see that she and her husband are serving each other. That is what it is all about. They serve each other through the shared workload and in how they treat each other. It is not just one person ‘serving’ another, but the attitude of loving the other person (or people) and showing it.
Tina M says
Well said Helen! Thanks!
April says
Great read! I never realized that it was natural to be a mom vs a wife.
Everyday, almost, for three years now I text my husband a little i love you or I am proud of you because text, he says he really enjoys them.
We have been married three months and I am learning it’s the little things.
Krystal says
Thanks for this post, it’s a great reminder that you have to put out what you’d like to receive back. It’s really easy to fall into a habit of criticizing & expectations being too high & these tips are great ways to be more thoughtful & caring.
Amanda says
Clearly you missed the bold DISCLAIMER about the article…
Mallory @ Classy Clutter says
I love this! Thanks for sharing! Hope you can ignore any negative-ish comments. This is wonderful and so are you! Thanks for helping us all by giving us reminders and examples on how we can be great wives (& mothers for that matter!) Big hugs from NY!
Tina M says
Thanks so much Mallory!
Amy says
This is such a great post! It takes two to make a relationship work and I feel like sometimes we use the “I’ve been running after the kids all day” excuse to shut down once they go to bed. While it’s not all up to us, we need to do our part to work on our marriage too! It won’t be too long down the road that our kids are off into the world to live their own lives and then where will we be? We have to keep things going all of the time and remember why we got married in the first place! Thanks again!
Toni says
love your blog…..you are right on!
jessica says
I don’t recall reading anything about being a servant or slave, and certainly not about being beneath your husban. This post points out ways to be a best friend, which is what a healthy marriage should be.
What a healthy reminder!
Diana says
I agree I don’t recall reading anything that would make me feel less equal etc … Just great reminder, love it!
Reading other comments worries me about families and I can see why divorce rate is getting higher or in general people make choice to just move in and live together!!! We made a long and happy way with my husband with 6 kids all married and great families and only prays Lord for that… With some of this tips 😉
Tina M says
Thanks Diana!
Happy to love my husband better says
I am so sad u had to explain yourself!! I love your post and love that your heart is to strive to pursue even more happiness in your marriage!!! I’m getting tired of hearing about this whole fight to prove we as women are equal!! If we believed it, we wouldn’t have to be insecure and things like this wouldn’t bother us!!!
Kathy says
I just happened onto this a little later in the game than many of your commenters… reading what they have to say, I think it boils down to the difference between being used and being useful. Used conjures up all these negative images and feels powerless while useful is positive and satisfying and powerful and desirable. Yet, it’s hard to define just what the difference is except for the attitude you bring to it. In doing the very same acts you can be used or useful or sometimes both at the same time. I wrote a blog post about that awhile back with some real life examples if you want to hop over and see what I had to say about it: http://kathyburton.blogspot.com/2012/12/doors.html
Jessica says
I begrudgingly read this post just now. I know I need to work harder in our marriage! But after putting everything I have into raising our two kids and taking care of the house just to end the day with bedtime tantrums and sticky floors, the last thing I want to do is give more of myself to anyone! Arg! Anyway, thanks for the tips. Maybe I can swallow my pride a little and apply a couple of these.
Tina M says
Haha, your comment made me laugh Jessica. I think you are normal. I think we all feel that way on certain days.
Mandy says
I am just recently engaged, but your list is still very helpful for those of us trying to be proactive! Especially with the added stress of planning a wedding, it’s easy sometimes to make sure I am still showing my fiance that I love and appreciate him! Thank you for your great ideas 🙂
Tina M says
Thanks for stopping by Mandy!
Robyn says
Perfect reminder! Thank you!
Angie says
Awesome article & sorry you’re getting negative comments! I agree with everything you’ve said! My husband is naturally a “giver” & I need to really work on being a better wife. It doesn’t come naturally to me either. Thanks for the reminder!
Tina M says
Thank you Angie! It’s okay, you learn quickly as a blogger that there will always be people that disagree with you. I appreciate everyone’s honesty, and if this post is helpful for even one person, I’m happy 🙂
Jes says
I think this was a awesome article the beginning of it made me tear up because that is exactly how I have been feeling!!!! I think it is always good to work on your marriage and I love people who are willing to throw it out there for the world to see… I love your blog and don’t listen to the negative comments… (I was getting mad sitting here reading them). I also agree with the comment of our husbands before our kids… But in my mind its God who is first and if we don’t put him first then there is no work that we can do for our marriage to get better because I feel without God nothing will work… Well that was my 2-sense… Thanks for blogging 🙂
Tina M says
Thanks so much Jes. And I completely agree. God always comes first
Tabitha says
Whew! I really needed this today!!! Its a Sunday at 4:30am and I’ve just sent my honey off to work for the 7th straight day! He works a lot and normally by the 7th straight day we are both so tired of the routine. Normally other women tell me, “Girl you’re crazy stay in bed!!” This isn’t how I was raised or how I believe! I’m a stay at home mom because it was a choice he and I made as we had our first child that I could give him a better start to his up bringing by being with him instead of a child care provider. We had the opportunity for me to stay home so I am. So, although I could stay in bed I get up EVERY day that he has to work and make him a hot breakfast and prepare his lunch then walk him to the door and tell him good bye! Like I said this morning its just harder on us both with both of us being tired and we have a 10 month old who struggles to stay asleep all night so I’m normally up and down all night. I find myself thinking of him all day and looking for things to do for him, but the end of the week gets rough sometimes lol today this was such a blessing!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH
Jules says
This post was fabulous!!!! And exactly what I needed to hear 🙂
I’ve been married a little over a year and we are expecting our little bundle of joy in January. Life gets so busy…. My mind works in overtime all the time and I find myself not focusing as much on us as I did before the nausea and morning sickness…. Talk about feeling sexy… Not!!!!! And yet my husband has been my super hero through it all!!! Thanks for the positive words and suggestions. What a fabulous way to get refocused!!! Don’t you love when God uses others to help point you back the way you need to be going? I know I do!!!
Many blessings!!!
Jules
Rach says
I like this post. I understand everyone’s relationship is different, but these ideas are great for me at this time. I grew up in a family where my mom “wore the pants” and I learned to be that way. For the past 30 years of my life I was taught to be independent, strong, and be able to do things for myself. Great qualities while going through my 20s. However, since starting a family (my son is 20 months old and we are getting ready to try for baby #2) I learned that I couldn’t a “girl power” attitude while trying to raise a child, work a full time successful job AND be a supportive spouse. My marriage took the backburner after our son was born and sarcasm took the place of compliments. My husband is a fantastic, very hands on, father and a thoughtful husband and I needed to be reminded to reciprocate his actions. Thank you for the tips!
Courtney Fry says
Love this post. I can totally relate to being a mother coming more “naturally” but a wife “not so much”. Thanks for sharing! I think I’m up for the challenge.
Danielle says
I just read this post after searching on the internet how to be a better wife. I have only been married for a few months but I want to make sure I start out great and avoid the seeming endless number of divorces my family has been through. Because of this desire, I know I have to change my thinking and realize if I want something I have to make it happen.
I am appalled by some of the comments here bashing men and saying why shouldnt they change too, etc….ALL OF YOU need to read Dr.Lauras book the Proper Care and Feeding of Husbands. My husband is a wonderful man who works overtime every week so I do not have to work as I finish my degree. He helps me clean the house whenever I ask, he takes out the trash, kills the spiders, etc. He wants to move mountains for me and in turn, I want to be the kind of wife that he is proud of and happy to come home to every night. I will never have a happy husband or home if I bash him and ask why he doesn’t have to change and why do I have to go out of my way to make him happy etc….That is silly and immature and will surely lead to divorce. But if I make his home his safe place and be his happy wife and best friend, I guarantee that we will both be happier. Doing nice things for others makes me feel good, and if I try to make him feel good, he will reciprocate! People wake up! Yes marriage is a two way street and we are partners, but a crappy attitude about having to serve my husband isnt going to give me a strong happy lasting marriage. Thanks for this great post as I begin learning about marriage and being a wife!
Tina M says
Danielle,
I’m glad you want to create a great start, and Thanks for the book recommendation!
~s says
this is such a great list…all the things that I’ve been wanting to do but haven’t gotten around..
Tina M says
Yes, I understand. I have to remind myself every so often to refocus on some of these!
Shannon says
This is fantastic. That you for sharing. These are all things I have been working on as well and its really nice to see it in an organized thought out manner. So once again thank you for taking the time and making the choice to share
Jessica S. says
I’m surprised you had to put a disclaimer on this post. Clearly people weren’t reading your whole post where you said you felt you weren’t being the best wife!
These suggestions are great, and I’m definitely going to keep this post bookmarked because I too, am not the best housewife these days (also 3rd trimester)
Tina M says
Thanks Jessica. Good luck with the 3rd trimester, I always suddenly feel like I’m 90 years old those last few weeks as I wobble around! You are almost there! 🙂
Christina Ventura-DiPersia says
It always makes me laugh when I see something like this, and it says direct to the woman, “Try to be interested in sports by paying attention, going to games, watching with him, etc.” I was just pleading with my husband last night to take care of our daughter while I participated in a fantasy baseball league draft that we’re doing (90% me, though, since I’m more of the sports nut).
I don’t think it’s worth it once you are already married to fake something – he knows you, and it’s actually annoying (from a sports fan’s perspective) to have to explain what’s going on or why something is happening to someone while you are watching an important game (unless it’s during commercials, of course). But being cool with him watching it and letting him tell you about the highlights (we all love reliving an awesome game) is definitely a fun thing.
kelly says
thanks for this. be encouraged to continue this work. sometimes we just need to really think outside of ourselves. if i am willing to do that at work or let someone in line at the store go first, why wouldnt i first choose to bless my husband with that kind of love. it really is a meditation. to think of others and to feel inspired to love selflessly. so thank you. every one has their own opinions and each marriage is different. but this was a lovely article.
kirstinlynne says
Thank you for this article, as new Mom, new blogger, new business owner, and new wife happening all at once I’ve been struggling to be the kind of wife I want to be and my husband really deserves. I hope everything has been going since the baby!
Stephanie says
Thank you for posting this! I am always looking for ideas to become a better wife for my husband. He is a good Godly man that works hard to provide for his family and he deserves the best. Thank you again and keep up the good work!!
Grace Williams says
Thanks for these helpful reminders. This is something that I have been working on overall recently. I too have a fabulous, caring and actively involved husband. Looking at things week by week really helps me feel like I can get back to my old self & be the woman I used to be for my husband. Not gonna lie, after 2 little ones, a job change, major financial crunches, major car troubles and more of life’s curve balls I have found the task of focusing on relationships kind of daunting. Appreciate the perspective & tips, looks like a good guide to help me keep it on my mind!
Jenn says
Wow. People will find anything to challenge, discredit and argue with. Great post! Lots of good ideas. 🙂
Jessamin says
I love this! I am not pregnant but we do have two children. I think society focuses on what men can do for women so much that we forget to give men some love too! I’m definitely going to try my own variation of this at home. 🙂
angelique nowak says
GREAT POST!!! I have to say I am feeling pretty good about myself cause I’m really good at a lot of these. Patting myself on the back right now. I printed this off and hung it in my closet for the reminder for the ones I have to work on.
brooke says
Great post! I have to say, so many people were bothered that this was a post dedicating to bettering ourselves as wives. I don’t understand exactly why that is so bothersome. I’ve noticed that when I stop focusing on what my husband “should” be doing for me and focus on what I could be doing for my husband, then I’m happier and so is he. And guess what? When I am serving him more and thinking of him more, he reciprocates as well. So yes, this article is fantastic and a great reminder of how we can better our relationships. We don’t always have to expect our husbands to be the ones to better it first.
Ashley says
Thank you for this. Ive been married for a year and sooo many times I worry about him getting sick of me :p
this is great!
Hannah Joy says
I love this article. I think women who say “what about the husband? shouldn’t he serve his wife instead of the other way around? and shouldn’t he try to be better?” are not looking at their own actions and being selfish. if you love someone, you want to serve them instead of complaining that they never do anything for you. It takes two to make a marriage work and i love when women agree with this idea. The bible does explain that a man is the head of the home and should be respected, not worshipped. The bible also says that a good woman is hard to find and worth more than diamonds. The bible is not anti-feminist. Women need to stop being selfish and look at themselves before pointing fingers. You do your part and your husband does his. Your a team not an anarchy.
Michelle says
I just found your post on Pinterest yesterday and I’m so grateful that you are continuing to challenge yourself to be better. This post was about you, about you wanting to be better. Isn’t this what life is all about. I get what you are trying to do and I’m on board. I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately, how I want my husband to still be excited to see me, and remember why he fell in love with me. It’s a challenge these days to do those things we did when we were dating where there is work, motherhood, bills, etc. We all need to challenge ourselves to be better everyday, but his is your blog, and you are talking about YOU, and you happen to be a woman. Thank You for the challenge. I am excited to try it starting tomorrow.
lost says
I think your thought process is wonderful. But I wish I would have seen this 8 yrs ago. What do you do when 90% of the time you strongly dislike the man you married. That you like him better when he is not around. That you wish and hope and prayed for years that he would look past the 70lbs you gained and the stress you have in razing a non vebal child with autism and just hug you and let you cry. But after so many years of just not clicking what do you do now? I told him when he asked me to marry him that I do not believe in divorce, so he better be sure. But we’ve been sleeping in seprate beds for yrs and I don’t have any clue what to do
Give up says
The perfect comfort: Give it up to The Lord. Talk to God, write your questions and needs to him, I promise He will answer. When the little one finally sleeps spend alone time with The Lord. Cry and let it all out, He knows already all that you are enduring, but wants you to tell Him, to ask of Him, He always answers, and He answers perfectly. He knows your heart and your husbands heart better than anybody else, so who else better to go to? Write it down and someday you will look back and remember and you will see how He has answered! I know this from my own experience over and over, we just have to make the little effort to ask the one who is Wisdom.
I pray for you, for wisdom, strength, healing, love, and peace. May you be victorious in these trials.
Inspired says
Loved this post! This has encouraged me to be better for my husband. Every husband and wife can find some need for improvement in how we treat each other. I don’t need to look far for myself tho. There are many things I can take from this weekly list to bless my family, because when I do better for my husband it benefits not only him, but myself to be a better person and more importantly my daughter seeing a fruitful relationship between her mom and dad, and seek nothing less with her someday husband. Thank you for sharing your wonderful ideas! Going to use them ASAP
Reena Moss says
I absolutely loved this post.I won’t say it as if anything is wrong, but if something wasn’t wrong alot of women wouldn’t have found your site. I know I can do better. I will be married 8 yrs the end of this month. We have a 7 yr old and a soon to be 3 yr old. I was 25 when I married my husband who is two years older than me. We had our daughter as soon as we got married and sometimes I miss the date nights and the time alone. I love my children with all of my heart but now that they are apart of us, it isn’t always easy to focus on my husband but I thank God for this web page. I am not ashamed to say I need help. I’ve had a taste of my husband being bored, not feeling wanted, loved and feeling disrepected. I know vow to make sure that doesn’t happen ever again. I was content in our marriage and I’ve learned that we always need to be one step ahead of making them happy. Not all men, but some men get bored and everything you mentioned above helps reel them back in.
Thank you.
I am going to start this today.
Antoinette Brierly says
I really love this article! It is really easy to get wrapped up in life and to treat my husband as if he should be my “right hand man”, rather than the man that I love. 🙁 Definitely need to focus on us as a couple more. And that video was funny.
Serena says
Love this article! Thank you for writing it 🙂
Crystal Patterson says
You are doing the work of the Lord. You don’t have to explain anything to women who came to a blog entitled “30 days to a Better Wife”. Obviously, they came on the site for a reason and I don’t believe it was to be critical. I want to encourage you. The word of God says that the wife’s desire would be unto her husband and that we are their helpers. It also says to obey our husbands in ALL things. People, please read the Bible before you read Biblical blogs and maybe you won’t be confused. I am allowing God to perfect me in His way and being a good wife is a part of being whole. I want to simply say thank you. God bless…
Dee says
I’m a very selfish person. I forget easily what my husband does for me and this article really touched on a lot if the things I need to work on. Everyday, I wake up with regrets about the kind of wife I am or have become because of my selfishness. My husband isn’t perfect but I know that No one else could ever love me, I mean truly love me, the way he does. I pray that God will change my heart and that I will be as generous and forgiving to him as I am with others, even strangers. My heart is broken for the way I have been to him and the wife I have become. I know I need to forgive, forget, and forsake the past mistakes and recommit to our marrimarriage. I’m sorry I gave up on hoping that this could ever change. I realize that change starts with me.
Jordan says
This article makes me want to smash my head against a wall. I love how you said “let go of expectations”. You have the right to have expectations and you are not required to do all the chores in the house (you make it sound like you do) and expecting him to wash dishes, which is not a high aspiration, is completely fine. Your husband sounds like an unappreciative jack ass and I implore you to either make him a “30 days to being a better husband” article or leave him.
Julie says
I’ll be honest, I don’t understand the criticism of this post. I’m not overly religious and my husband and I have a “non-traditional” marriage in that I am the primary financial contributor- for years he worked really hard at a job he hated, but physically he could no longer do it due to his back problems. I have always enjoyed my job, and was happy to allow him to work less by taking on more of the financial responsibility. I share this only to say that I still find articles like this to be a good reminder. We’ve been married for almost 14 years and we do forget about things like this time- yesterday I was going out for a day with my friends and I was getting dressed up and he made a comment about how I never get dressed up. I told him at the time it was because he never seemed to notice or appreciate it when I did, but it did make me think about it…. so when I got home last night I helped him bring in some heavy bags from the car, and today when he was working really hard to clean up the yard, I helped haul water outside, and got him his favorite chips and sub for lunch and sat with him and watched a small bonfire with him. These kinds of articles help remind me that its important to spend time letting my husband know that I love him, respect him, cherish him and desire to be with him. Yes, he also needs to let me know those things… but marriage is not a competition.
Amanda Felton says
Thank you so much for this post! I feel just like you in the matter of motherhood coming naturally and being a wife not so much. I struggle at being the best wife I can be and can’t wait to get this challenge underway!! So thankful I found you and can’t wait to read more of your posts.
Ashley Berry says
I love this post! My husband and I are actually going thru a really rough time, starting marriage counseling and trying to make our relationship what it used to be. He is slowly explaining to me what has bothered and scared him in the past couple of years which is really helping me understand where I can make positive changes. Like today he came home for lunch and after we ate we had a quick talk and he finally told me that after every major dilemma/fight we have I promise to make my improvements and do for about a month then things start to go downhill…for whatever reason I let things get in the way of my love for him. Thanks again!
Lara @ MommyKazam says
These are great reminders! It is definitely important to remember that our husbands put the effort in for us and that we should absolutely try to be the best wife we can be. The time to unwind is an area of particular struggle around here!
faithfulmo says
Thanks for this post- I had pinned it to my Pinterest board way before I got married, and just now decided to read it. I think it was just the right time too. I’ve only been married a few months, but I remember I had this idealistic expectation in my head that I was going to always put my husband first and be the happy, attentive wife all the time. And I WANT to do that! But being a new wife mixed with an overseas move and leaving the things and people I was used to, have equaled some days where I’m not the happy wife. I’m the choking back tears all day, overly irritable, closed off wife. Reading this article gave me some wonderful ideas of ways to remind my husband of why he married me, and to help me refocus on what’s actually important.
Carrie says
I know this is a super old post but I just wanted to thank you so much for posting it. I’m 35 and my husband and I have been together for 13 years, married for 3 of them. I love my husband immensely but lately it’s been so tense around our house. We don’t have kids, just a couple of dogs — so we don’t have nearly the amount of stress as a married couple with children. But lately, things have just been off. We’ve been arguing a lot…over the smallest things…and he’s been telling me that he just feels something is missing and it’s preventing him from being completely happy. At first I was angry… I thought to myself, “How on earth could something be missing?” We both have great jobs, two awesome dogs, a beautiful home… I thought he was being selfish and that no matter what I do, I’m just not enough for him. But after reading this post, I really examined my own behavior and how I treat him and I realized that if I was on the receiving end of how I treat him, the things I expect of him, etc…that something would be missing for me as well.
My company is nice enough to let me work from home — we moved about 3 hrs from my office as he got a big promotion at his workplace so we needed to relocate and being that I’ve been with my company for 11 years, I didn’t want to leave my job — I negotiated a work from home schedule. Not having that social interaction during my day that I use to have with my coworkers has really taken it’s toll…so every day when he gets home, I was expecting him to be ready to give me emotional support and to talk and chat, etc etc the minute he walked in the door from work. I’m alone all day w/the dogs b/c of my work from home schedule so by the time he gets home, I’m eager to have that social interaction… I wasn’t giving him time to come home and unwind from his day. He works very hard and deserves that.
I don’t send him letters or texts in the middle of his day to make him smile, I don’t get up early to make him a lunch to take with him, most of the time I don’t do the activities he wants to do, I make him do them alone. We have shared interests, I’m not saying we don’t ever have fun together b/c we do, of course. But the next time he wants to go for an hr long hike in the hills by our house together, I’m going to do it instead of saying no. He obviously wants my company and it’s not like he asks me or expects me to go every single time.
And this post makes me sound very selfish but I’m actually not at all. Everyone needs a wakeup call. I thought I was being the best wife to him that I could be and it turns out I was very wrong…and that’s okay. It doesn’t make you a bad person when you realize there are things you could do better for the people you love, it actually makes you a better person b/c you love them enough to realize you can do better by them.
I’m sorry this message is so long but, I really appreciate this post and I’m thankful I found it. I just know it’s going to make a huge difference around my household. God bless!
Tina M says
Carrie,
I don’t know how I missed your comment! You don’t sound selfish AT ALL! I think all of us (including your husband) could ALL be doing things to be better spouses. We all need reminders. And I am totally bad at letting my husband unwind when he gets home. The first thing I want to do is hand him the kids and go sit on the couch! Hope all is going well your way! Thanks for your commment
S.F. says
Really appreciated this post! I am going to implement these ideas as well. I’m glad there are still people out there that are bold enough to suggest sacrificing of ourselves for our loved ones, instead of all the “how-to-get-your-loved-one-to-give-more-to-you-because-you-deserve-it” articles that I see all the time.
Brianna says
This is so inspiring. I love how down to earth this is. I want nothing more to make sure that I treat my husband the best I can. And this post gave me some great tips. Thanks so much, and I’m sure my husband will thank you too!!
Brittany Mason says
I feel I am often in the same boat now, it is hard to not be the tired-grumpy wife. I am a mother of a 2 1/2 year old and 16 month old, and am also 13 weeks pregnant. He does so much, and when he gets home he doesn’t rest, he immediately jumps in and starts helping with the kids and some of the housework. He is a great man, and I have thought many times that I need to step up my game as well. Not, like you said, because men are superior; but because he deserves to know he is appreciated at home. He gets less sleep than I do, has a very physical job, and then comes home and doesn’t stop still. I am lucky to have him!
Robyn says
I’m grateful to have read your article! I’m going to try a few of these 🙂 I’m encouraged by this. Thank you!!
Christine says
Just came across this article and LOVE it! I tend to be quite selfish at times and want to be a better person/wife/daughter/sister/friend/everything. I love the ideas you have noted here and some of the ones that commenters have noted as well. This will help me start a new path of becoming better, especially in my marriage. Thank you!!!
angela says
This is the most sexist article that I have ever seen .
Brittney McCarty says
Thank you so much i am so glad seen this article .
Lisa G says
I have a fantastichusband he does so much for us. We both work full time and split the housework n kid duties. It helps that i married a fully functional adult that can cook n clean after himself. Lol everything else we’ve learned together. He goes out of his way to do nice things for me. N i try to do nice thkngs for him. Being married is hard n we get involved with trying to figure out things ourselves and stress too much. I have a bad habit of being the tired gross wife when he gets home. Lol. Thanks for the tips. Making him happy makes me happy. Grouchy dad is grouchy mom makes grouchy kids and vice versa.
Niecy says
Thank you so much!As a new wife, this article is very helpful. Thanks again & may God bless you and your family.
Delan says
I just found this on pinterest looking for fun date night ideas. I love it! I don’t think you should apologize for it at all! We should remember that Jesus himself was a servant. He washed his disciples feet! He didn’t complain because his disciples weren’t above him and he shouldn’t be the one to sacrifice. He didn’t worry about whether they would do their part or carry their load in the relationship. He set an example. I’m not saying this at all to judge but perhaps because I know I have struggled too just like probably every wife on the planet! But I have learned that I want to be easy to love. When you truly show a man how much you appreciate him something just lights up inside him! It’s fun to watch.
Aurora Grace J. Lim says
Hello there. I just found out my husband is having an affair to his co-worker. Im just confuse on what to do. Maybe i was not a better wife to him. He told me i was not contented with him that is why he had an affair. If i was not contented i should be the one having an affair not him. I was really confuse because i gave everything to him. I did not left anything for myself. What should i do? Can you please help me.
Haley says
Please don’t take the credit for what he did to you. There is no excuse to cheat on you. If there were problems with the way you loved him, he should have came to you first. What a coward he is. I hope you teach him a lesson before you move forward in your relationship. My thoughts are with you.
Terri Mansfield says
Well, it is your life and you need to live it how you see fit. One thing you said makes me sad though….when you said that he “helps out”. I wonder what you meant by that because I automatically thought that here was another woman who believes taking care of home/kids is HER job and that anything her man does is a bonus. I am thinking that is not what you meant but that is how it came across. I think marriage is a partnership and as far as the house and kids are concerned, we both created/acquired these together so they are both our responsibility equally. It drives me a little crazy when women go out to work or whatever and tell people their child’s father is “babysitting” his own children. He is not “helping out”…he is honoring his commitment. Either way, good luck and peace to you!!
Haley says
I love this article. My husband and I met in grade school and have been friends for a long time. I enjoyed reading this because we have been together for so long and he is my best friend. We didn’t start a relationship until we were almost 30 years old. We’ve been together for 9 years as a couple and not only do I do this for him he does these things for me. He’s the best man I’ve ever met apart from my boys with him. They learn from the best. I don’t ever post on these things because people are such naysayers and negative . I see how some are being with you and wanted to point out how spot on you really are. It takes two and to really be in love for this to work. Good luck to all your Haters
Samantha says
This is a huge eye opener. My husband and I are going through a rough patch right now and there are a few things you point out that I know I can specifically work on. It is always easy to say the other person is the problem and think you aren’t the problem. But this is definitely something I will refer to now and down he road. Thank you so much!
Elizabeth says
I find it very disturbing that you had to write a disclaimer due to all the comments you were getting. What happened to taking care of our man as he takes care of us? If he’s hungry, feed him. If he’s tired, let him relax (or maybe even give him a back or foot rub (God forbid)). Clean up for him so he has a nice home to walk in to after a long day of work. I see more and more women expecting men to take care of them but then they don’t do crap to take care of him. It’s not being old fashioned, it’s being good to your significant other. It’s not demeaning.
Gary says
Well for many of us Good men that are Not even married yet it is very hard to meet a Good woman to settle down with as it is since the women of today compared to years ago have really Changed.
costus kwoba says
I like making my neighbor happy by doing what he/she wants with returns or no returns it makes me feel happy and avoid day today stress i do forgive him often to make me comfortable when near him
Mrs. Williams says
I too have noticed that my husband tends to be the last one on the priority list, due to the fact that we have three very active daughters, varying from ages of 5-16. Momma just runs out of “steam” sometimes, but I’ve began putting some of the afore mentioned techniques into action, and I’ve noticed an increased desire to bond and create time for one another, or at least make the best of what time we do get together. I plan to implement the other techniques into action, bc I know it will only get better from here. And you’re right: the greater he feels, being appreciated, loved, adored, respected, and needed, the greater his desire to fulfill my needs has increased in him…it’s a win /win! Thanks for sharing!
Jls says
I believe the answer that a lot of women- and people in general are missing when they are confronted with the idea of being a better wife when their husband isn’t doing his complete half is this. In ANY area of life, you are supposed to do YOUR best and always thrive to be better (with positive self encouragement of course.) You don’t give up in being a good person just because so many people in the world may be bad do you? This applies in a marriage as well. It will also make you stronger and more confident. Trust me I know! And as others have stated, this article does not apply to those who are in an abusive or severally dysfunctional relationship. Also I would like to add something along with the article, another important thing is TO HAVE YOUR OWN LIFE. And I don’t mean to go to an extreme. But it just so happens that many times when a woman marries, she often starts being very co-dependent. And this can be a major turnoff to men because many of the reasons that you were unique tend to start fading away when this happens. Make sure that you are doing things that you used to do that made him like you. Still make time for your girlfriends and make space for each other. That makes the time together more appreciated.
Haylee says
Love these tips! And good for you working to implement them in the last days of pregnancy…that can be a tough time! And the video is hilarious (but so true!).
Clare Kennedy says
this is fantastic. thank you for this! also that video was great!~
Tina Harting says
Do you possibly have this in a printable version?
Latonya Carey Carmichael says
OMG I’m sure like all the other wives you really took the words out of my mouth. I love being creative BUT the problem with that is to other ppl. I find myself being the most creative for my husband when it’s his birthday or Father’s Day. BUT your post just inspired me even more to go the extra mile for him. I plan to do something at least once a week for him. Its amazing that when we think we are going through things alone, there is always someone else experiencing the exact same. Great Post! And thanks for sharing.
Ruth Espin says
Submission is my way of showing my husband how much I love him. I’ve learned to stop nagging and being jealous. This is because I have asked God to change me from a bitch to a nice person. The first is very rewarding. I feel that my husband loves me more now.
Vicki says
This post is not only relevant for young married couples but for all of us no matter how long we’ve been married. This post was a good reminder and very well written. My husband and I are celebrating our 20th anniversary this month and was such a good reminder for me. I don’t even know how I got to your post. I was looking at cards. God leads us to what we need to read!
Thank you for the help!
Heidi says
I love your article! Thank you for sharing these beautiful ideas. Yours is a refreshing message in a world that is full of feminism and messages of selfishness rather than selflessness. If we all took time to think of others and serve them a little more, more marriages would last! Thanks for your words and insights.
Chally says
Honestly I have to say, I love your blog!, thanks a lot for sharing with everyone! I believe the most important thing in the mariage is TO HAVE A GOOD COMMUNICATION between couples!
Thanks again !
Maria
Lanette Gomez says
I have teenager and got married in April 2017. My daughter and my husband don’t get a long and I’m the thug war in the middle. I raise my daughter by myself till I got married in April2017. I’m the only working, my husband don’t work at all. He’s being trying get his online business started having no luck with it. He always calling me selfish, tell me I don’t do anything for him. I work all the time, and pay all the bills. I want to know am I in the for doing everything am I selfish on my part of being a good wife and mother.
The Dude says
Anal, and not just once a year either. Also, do all the other sexual things he wanted from you before tying the knot. He will recipricate affection, trust me. Dig deep and bring out that powerful sex monstress inside you, let her ride.
malloryherrera says
Thank you, I needed to see this. I dove into motherhood head first and have put my marriage on the back burner without any idea on how to take it off. My husband puts up with so much from me, it’s time that I show him some appreciation.
Alicia says
I love, love this post!! I am 50 years old & I was the only girl with 4 brothers (3 older, 1 eight years younger). I was raised old fashion ways but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Don’t get me wrong, women that are independent, I have the utmost respect for, but that’s what works for them. I take alot of criticism because I have always taught my children to put God first, spouse, then children. I wake up every morning thinking “what can I do to make my husband happy today.” I have been blessed with a man that provides for me & is my best friend. He wishes I wasn’t such a people pleaser, but that’s just me. Thank you again for these wise words. Bless you!
Lauren says
You can only change YOU, you are responsible for YOUR actions, not your husbands.
Great article! Thanks for the week by week tips!
Millie says
I agree I married a great man who is always doing.things.for me. This article made me realizes how lucky I am that I have a great husband and a role model for my son. I want to show him that I appreciate all he does for us.
Millie says
Tina I loved your article. You described my relationship. My husnand.is a giver he is caring affectionate he is always helping me out. He is also a wonderful father to our son. I liked the part that men need time to unwind when they come from work. Took me 20 years to realize that.
I have to work on my whining and enjoy this wonderful man. Thank you so much for all yoyr great suggestions. Now I think I will go and watch him coach his little league team. All the positive comments out weights the negative
Millie L
Nicole Mullicane says
Thank you so much for this. My husband and I have been together for almost 10 years and married for 2 years and 4 months. I sometimes struggle with expecting him to be on it all the time and don’t realize that I need to step up too. I’m definitely going to try this.