Do you think that you need to improve yourself as a spouse? I’m not talking about becoming a Stepford wife. Rather, be a supportive partner. If you feel the need that you want to be a better spouse then here are are 8 realistic, healthy tips to follow:
1. Use ‘I Feel’ statements, not ‘You Are’ statements
Are you annoyed by your husband’s habit of paying more attention to his cellphon than you? Then, feel free to share your feelings with him. However, avoid attacking him. For example, you can say, “I feel like you don’t value what I’m saying when you stare at your phone during our conversations.”
2. Frequently talk about money
Money is one of the most common causes of stress in any relationship. So to avoid the conflict, set up a monthly meeting to talk about finances. This strategy will help you achieve your goals by keeping resentment at bay.
3. Practice random acts of gratitude and kindness
Bring him his favorite pastries. Tell him how handsome he looks, and you will be surprised how far a little kindness can go.
4. Clearly tell him what you want and need
Be direct with what you want. Before you start complaining, give him a chance to live up to your expectations.
5. Don’t criticize him in public
Whatever issues you have with him, talk about them in private, and don’t use a public forum to criticize him.
6. Make plans
Take initiative, make plans, and surprise him by taking him to his favorite place. Trust us, he will surely love the initiative and will reciprocate the favor in the future.
7. Have an independent life
Sign up for pickling lessons, join a book club, or go out with your friends. Give him space, and don’t be a constant, ever-present shadow.
8. Laugh it off
So, he installed the air conditioner wrong, and you forgot to add salt in a veggie? In these situations, it is quite easy to jump to ‘I hate you’ or ‘I’m annoyed.’ But if you handle every situation with humor, you can avoid the conflict and find the solution.
