Think Like A Husband, But Act Like A Wife

1. Does he have a sports obsession?

My husband and his months of long sports-watching rituals are a must, NFL, NHL, NBA you name it, he's watching it! Basically any sport that requires sitting in front of the television … so why aren’t you taking a spa day while he does this?

Here's what you should do: Schedule out some regular time to do something you love, or better, you could do nothing and just relax. If he would never miss a Giants game, why are you continuously skipping a mani-pedi? Think about it.

2. Be Upfront About Dislikes

Every husband has things they’re not too keen on doing with or for you. (It’s okay, mine does too.)You know, stuff like helping with the dishes, going to the mall or picking out kids clothes when it's time to school shop. Being in love doesn’t mean you have to love everything about sharing a life with your partner (I'm okay with not going fishing.) – just don’t put on an act. Husbands don’t!

What you should do: Make it clear that you’d rather skip the Bass Pro Shop run if you give him a pass on your next trip to Sprouts.

3. Be Prepared to Protect Your Home

Sometimes we wives are too quick to rely on our husband to be the sole protector of the home (I'm guilty as charged). Most men enjoy this role, but it can be a shared one. I’m not saying you should be the one to go “check on the noise outside” in the middle of the night.

But here's what you can do: you can take a martial arts or self-defense class (Double bonus: It’s a great workout too!), take shooting lessons, do research on security systems that work for your budget/home, and make sure you’re practicing safe habits at home.

4. Does he have a “Guys night out”?

Every month my husband and his friends get together for a “guys’ night.” Much like I can count on the sun rising and setting each day; I can count on guys’ night.

But….  Instead of being upset about it, think ahead, get a sitter (if you have kids) and plan an exclusive “Ladies night out” to have another reason to get gussied up. Who doesn’t love another reason to toss on those new heels or go out and buy a new dress? Ladies’ night is all about dressing for you.

If only wives sacrificed less. I think sometimes we're the gatekeepers of our own happiness in a marriage, and we become insistent on following a routine, even when breaking it (just a little) will cost us nothing.

Written by: Brydie Clark