(ThyBlackMan.com) Turn off the autopilot and start feeding your marriage…
Everyone worries too much about bills, getting the kids off to school, and why the dog keeps peeing on the carpet. It’s time to light that fire again and remind her of all the reasons why she married you to begin with. Here are 10 steps that will get you on your way to husband of the year…
1) Take an interest in something your wife is really passionate about.
This can be especially tough for guys, because we generally feel that if someone else has interests that differ from ours, they’re morons. It’s not an easy task, and being able to show interest in something that matters to someone you love shows growth—and that’s terrifying. Good, but terrifying. Accomplish this and you’ll make her feel better about herself, and you get better insight into what makes her tick.
2) Put the kids to bed.
Once a week give her the night off and put the kids to bed by yourself. Let her take a hot bath, read a book, or check gossip on the Web and forget about the kids. I’m always amazed how happy this makes my wife. It ranks somewhere between low-end jewelry and a Hawaiian vacation.
3) Learn to apologize.
This is the easiest one, and the hardest one. A marriage is a marathon, and we all fly off the handle too quick or let our temper get the best of us sometimes. When you’re wrong, it’s best to step up and apologize. It’s amazing how fast “I’m sorry” can defuse a stupid argument about something you can’t even remember.
4) Thank her for putting up with you.
Every once in a while, just thank her for putting up with you. That’s all you have to say. Don’t launch into a list of your faults, or the story about coming home two days late from that Vegas bachelor party. Just thank her, and let her know that you understand that you’re not the easiest person in the world to live with.
5) Clean up after yourself.
Take care of that late night snack or morning cereal bowl. Setting them in the sink is one thing, but go that extra mile and actually put them in the dishwasher. After all, no one enjoys scraping bacon dip off a bowl that’s been sitting too long or smelling the chili from the night before. A beer bottle on the counter the next morning is even worse.
6) Make time for just the two of you.
Take her on a date once a month. Surprise her by arranging child care, ordering a pizza for the kids, and getting a sitter. She will be so thrilled at your ability to take care of the details that reservations at the best restaurant in town aren’t even necessary. The fact that you love her enough to do this would make a Big Mac taste like cracked crab.
7) Groom yourself.
Don’t embarrass her when you venture out of the house. Check the ears, nose, neck and yes, feet for hair or other growths that shouldn’t be there. She not only wants you to impress her friends by how you act, but also by how you look.
8) Get away from the family.
Yep, you’re getting a free pass. This takes a left turn from the others, but it’s essential. Get away from all your responsibilities and go camping or on a golf outing with the guys. You’ll laugh, relax, and recharge your batteries. And all three will make you a much better husband when you return.
9) Deal with your side of the family.
Help your wife set expectations with your side of the family when it comes to making plans. Don’t make her inform your parents that they won’t be seeing their grandkids on Christmas this year—pick up the phone and do it yourself. Dealing with extended family can be a huge stress throughout the year, and you don’t want the burden to fall entirely on her.
10) Don’t lose your dating manners.
Remember, she’s your wife, not one of your buddies. Don’t burp during dinner, or squeeze one out during the movie as she’s reaching for the popcorn. You wouldn’t have done that while you were dating, and you shouldn’t do it now. Continue to try and impress her. Do everything you can to keep the fire alive, and fight the urge to let the passion die. Find the new, hot place to eat or take her to see a cool band that’s in town. Have fun, laugh, and make sure you tell her how great she looks.
Written By Craig Playstead
Official website; http://CraigPlaystead.com/
Ms. Holbrook:
I can relate to your sentiments regarding MARRIAGE.
I too, have been selfish, insensitive, and an overall A*****E.
Number 1, 3, & 4 hit dead on. Me and my Fiancee’are to the point where we can talk to–not at–each other about our current relationship issues. Although, she has thanked me many times for being there for her over the last 10 years (drama, cheating, etc. etc.); I’m mostly concerned about forgiving her, letting it all go, and trusting GOD to guide us back on the right paths. The past is just that “THE PAST”….Holding grudges creates hate and I’ve been there and done that however, if I’m to truly learn to trust this woman, I MUST 4 give and in turn, keep loving her more and more and more until she learns to love herself and to just keep loving her in spite of myself.
I’ll keep praying on my INTERNAL workload and I know GOD will guide me back (mentally, emotionally, spiritually) not only to him, but back to myself and my Fiancee’ (mentally, emotionally, and spriritually). . . . .
Thanks for your input on this issue which, a lot of black couples shy away from however as the old saying goes; “THE PROOF IS IN THE PUDDING.”
JAMES.
All of these points are excellent and things that I constantly speak of and so desire. While we were dating and at the beginning of our marriage my husband did most of these steps. Now, I can barely get a conversation out of him nor the time. He has turned into self-righteous man who only thinks of himself. If he only he would just try some of these tips, our marriage problems would be resolved. It is just that simple. I would rather have quality time over material things.