Relationships can be complex. Personalities clash and compromises will be made if you want to make things work. While it does take hard work, some crucial keys to staying married are pretty simple. Here are five things every husband needs to know to stay (happily) married:
1. It's worse for her to go through than for you to hear about it
Whether it's period pain, stress at work, fights with friends or family feuds, your wife needs to know you care. All you have to do is listen. Or half listen. If you blink and nod your head a few times a minute she'd probably be fine with that. Don't under estimate the power of keeping your wife happy. Making her feel important and heard is half the battle. She'll let a lot slide if she feels cared for.
2. It's your job to help her heal from your wrongdoings
If you've made a misstep in your marriage you need to made things right again. Leaving your spouse to heal on her own is yet another act of selfishness on top of whatever indiscretion led to the fallout. Time doesn't always heal emotional wounds - that takes work. Step up every day to correct your mistakes and help your wife recommit to what you've built.
3. Do without being asked (or complaining)
Happy husbands are suspiciously free of nagging wives. And only one thing keeps women from nagging their husbands...Just doing it! Take out the trash, cut the grass, clean, tidy and make arrangements. Look around, see what needs to be done and do it. Leaving it there until tomorrow my be easier for you but will build up tension over time. When things get done without a husband having to be bugged, a wife's mood will undoubtedly lighten, keeping your home more harmonious and happy.
4. Keep your criticism to a minimum
No one likes to feel judged. A sense of dread and negativity can permeate your home if your wife constantly feels criticized. Even when you're not around she'll feel small...Like nothing she says or does is good enough. Insecurity, anxiety and hyper-sensitivity can kill the joy and significantly shorten the lifespan of your marriage.
5. Speak her love language
Some women need affection. Others need time. Still more need grand gestures to feel loved. Whatever your wife needs most, within reason, give it to her. You may not like hugs but if she needs them, then you need them if you want to stay happily married. If you don't know exactly what she wants, ask her.
Men think women are complex creatures, but the basics of staying married are simple. Making sure your wife feels comfortable and cared for will lighten the load most couples face. Keeping a sense of peace and satisfaction leaves room in your relationship for more pressing matters, and takes the focus off your feelings about being together.
