Having a strong marriage is a wonderful blessing, but if it isn't nurtured and cared for, it will fall apart. Each partner in a marriage must put forth an equal effort to show their love and appreciation for one another. However, men often have a much more difficult time showing their emotions. Unfortunately, if these emotions aren't displayed and shared, it can become easy for a wife to feel hurt and taken for granted.
Sept. 22 is Wife Appreciation Day. This day is designed to not only show your wife how much you love her and are grateful for everything she does, it is also a reminder that you must show appreciation each day of the year. Here are 10 small ways you can show your love and appreciation to your wife.
1. Compliment her
Your wife is in a continual battle for her self-esteem. There are articles, friends and family members all around us that make it look easy to manage a household, exercise daily, constantly look our best and make gourmet meals. Give your wife compliments each day; letting her know what a good job she is doing. Compliment her on her appearance, even if she is wearing sweatpants and a baggy T-shirt. Compliment the dinner she prepared or the cleanliness of your home. Be sincere in your compliments. They will mean the most to her.
2. Acknowledge her
Your wife does a lot around the house. She cleans, cooks, takes care of the children and runs errands. Take the time to acknowledge the tasks she has completed in the day. Even if she does something small like take out the trash or make a dessert, acknowledge the hard work she puts in each day.
3. Tell her she is beautiful
Your wife needs to be told she is beautiful. Some days, especially with young children at home, showers are hard to come by and looking her best just won't happen. Even if she just woke up or has spent the day without any makeup, make sure she knows that you think she is beautiful. She needs that little boost.
4. Spend time with her
One of the best ways to show appreciation to your wife is to simply spend time with her. Life becomes busy, but we must make time for our spouse. When we don't, feelings of discouragement, frustration and lack of confidence begin to settle in. You don't have to plan a date every night. You can make time to talk while lying in bed or get up early and exercise together.
5. Surprise her
Random surprises throughout your wife's day can make a difference. These surprises do not have to be extraordinary gifts, but small things such as a note left on the mirror or a text message sent to her during your lunch break. You can even get the kids ready for bed without her asking or get up early and make her breakfast. It is the small things you do that will really make her heart melt.
6. Praise her
Your wife needs (and deserves) your praise. She does a lot for you and your family. When you are with others, never say anything negative about your wife. That is one of the quickest ways to watch your relationship crumble.
7. Help her
A little help can go a long way. Help out around the house and with the children. Do the dishes after dinner or clear the table. Be the one who gives the children a bath or changes diapers. A little help can show your wife that you care.
8. Listen to her
You are your wife's best friend, and she needs your listening ear. She wants you to truly listen to her and her challenges throughout the day, her fears and concerns and her frustrations. By taking the time to listen to your wife, you are showing her that you do care, you want to know what is going on in her life, and she is your biggest priority.
9. Respect her
Your wife deserves your respect. Never talk to her in a demeaning tone or criticize her, especially when she is putting forth her best effort. Always remember that she is your partner, your friend and your confidant. Respect her and you will most likely receive the same respect in return.
10. Thank her
Most importantly, thank your wife for everything she does for you and your family. As a wife and mother, your spouse sacrifices her time, talents and money to maintain your home and family. When was the last time you thanked her? When was the last time you said, "Thank you" for a nice dinner on the table or for washing your clothes? Thank your wife for all she does on a continual basis. Those few words will act as a constant reminder to her that she is loved and appreciated.
If you need to make some changes in how you have treated your loved one, here are some suggestions on how to kiss and make up with the one you love.
By doing a few of the above tasks, you will not only increase your love for her, she will know how much you care.
