We talked about how nice it would be to get a handbook on tips for what you need to know as a wife. As with What Every Husband Needs to Know, the following are some tips offered by wives for newly married or soon to be married women.
What Every Wife Needs to Know includes:
- Men are protective by nature. That protective nature can sometimes seem stifling. Try to understand that your husband does trust you, he just doesn’t trust anyone else. Communicate with him and work together to make sure he can still protect you, while not limiting your personal sense of freedom.
- Your husband’s upbringing may influence how he feels about doing household chores. Don’t assume that he will take care of only designated male chores. If you want his help with things, communicate that. More often than not, your husband will want to help – he just won’t naturally know what you want done.
- Control issues like finances and other major household decisions can be a bone of contention, even in newly married couples. Be sure to discuss with your husband before doing major shopping. Check in with him on things like grocery lists – it can’t hurt to get their input and they will appreciate it.
- Women are nurturers by nature. We like to take care of our families, our husbands and our children. Never treat your husband like one of your children. Sometimes, when you over nurture – you can set a precedent that causes you issues in the future. Take care of them, but don’t do everything for them
- Discuss your needs with your husband. We often mistake love for mind reading. Our husbands cannot read our minds and know absolutely what we need. By telling them about our needs and listening to theirs, we are both more likely to be satisfied.
- Courtesy and consideration should only be enhanced by marriage, not forgotten. While familiarity can lead to contempt in some cases, avoid that. Your husband still deserves all of the kindness, consideration and courtesy you extended before you were married. Just the same way you do.
- Saying I love you, never gets old. Showing your affection with little gestures and thoughtful gifts of appreciation are excellent ways to maintain the romance.
What other suggestions can you offer future and new wives?