When our expectations for our spouse become unreasonable, we are really setting our marriages up to falter and maybe even fail. Here are some unfair expectations wives should avoid. First, that he will always “Get You.” My wife, Susan, sometimes says…“You just don’t get me.” And she’s right. As a man, I don’t think like Susan and don’t always understand how she’s feeling even when I try. The second unfair...

We’ve heard more than once that men crave respect—especially from their wives.  But I think it’s important that we define what sort of respect men are looking for.  So women, here are some respect needs of men.  First, respect his judgment.  Men crave to know that their wife deeply respects the things that make up his judgment: his knowledge, his opinions, and his decisions.  Second, respect his abilities.  This...

We all know that there is a gap between men and women—a gap filled with different desires, different strengths, and different styles of communicating.  So to help bridge that gap in your marriage, here are 5 things husbands wish their wives knew.  First, we desire clarity.  Give us the bottom line of what you need, not a lot of words. Then, we’ll be more likely to do it.  Second, we desire validation.  We want to...

Remember Connect the Dots? It’s the kid’s game where you draw a line from dot to dot until a bigger picture is made.  Like this game, some guys like me need to be led from dot to dot if you want us to get big things done.  So here are 6 ways to connect the dots and get your husband to do what you want.  First, ask them.  Men aren’t as intuitive as women, so we need to be told the bottom line of what you want...

Husbands and wives sometimes have unrealistic expectations of one another in marriage. But, there are a few things that a husband can and should expect from his wife. The first is respect. It’s one of the essentials men need in marriage?it's a fuel that drives them. You can keep his tank topped up with notes or words affirming his judgment and abilities. The second thing a husband should expect from his wife is...

Marriage means making mistakes—lots of mistakes. Unfortunately, some of those mistakes are harder to forgive than others. So here are 2 truths to consider when you’re struggling to forgive your husband. First, remember that someday the tables will turn and you’ll need forgiveness. Be ready to show him grace, knowing that eventually you’ll need his undeserved favor in return. Second, acknowledge that forgiveness is...

Send him an uplifting text message. In fact, send him one every day for the next 10 days. Here’s what you can say. First day, text him: If you feel really burdened today, remember that I want to help you. Day 2, text him: If you asked me again today, even after all we’ve been through, I’d still say, “Yes!” Day 3, I’m looking forward to having some time alone with you soon. Let’s plan something! And Day 4, text...