Marriage is something that requires constant work if you want it to grow and last. Being married to your partner is just the beginning of your journey together, so don’t relax after the ‘I dos’ but put in the effort so that you can work towards being together forever. By making your spouse's life easier, you’ll notice how your marriage becomes more enjoyable. After all, they say that a happy spouse translates to a happy marriage; thus, by making your spouse’s life easier, you'll make them happier. If you’re unsure about the things you need to do to make your spouse’s life easier, here are some tips to consider.
Be Supportive
Life will become easier for your partner if you create a supportive environment around them and make them feel supported in both good times and bad. You need to create a safe space where your partner can openly tell you what they are aspiring for and how they feel, without being judged or discouraged. Remember that you are a team and you need to therefore cheer each other on in anything you do. This removes the unnecessary pressure off your partner over worrying about your constant unsupportive remarks and it will make them feel overall better as they know that in whatever journey they embark on, you have their backs. If this environment won't boost your marriage, then we don't know what will.
Share Your Responsibilities
There is nothing more disheartening in a relationship than having to carry all the load of the relationship on your own. This creates resentment and it can even cause sudden outbursts and mood swings in your partner. Instead of just letting your partner do everything all on their own, you need to become more observant and if you notice that your partner is overwhelmed with chores or tasks, step in and lend a hand. When you decided to be together, you started a partnership where you help each other build your relationship together, and this includes financial responsibilities, chores, and other tasks. So don't lag leaching off your partner, but share your responsibilities, and you'll see how happy they will be.
Listen To Them
There is nothing more annoying than having to deal with someone who imposes their values and beliefs on other people without taking time to listen to what they have to say. You need to make it a priority to listen to what your spouse is saying when they are sharing their opinions, problems, and other components about their day. Don't be distracted and don't rush them: just sit back, and actively listen to them while giving them your full attention.
Communicate Well
Due to the difference between you and your partner’s brains and opinions, you are bound to have misunderstandings and conflicts within the relationship. This, therefore, favours you to master the art of communication so that you don't find things escalating all the time. You need to learn how to articulate your thoughts clearly and respectfully. Make it a habit to check in with each other regularly so that you can discuss your feelings, thoughts, and any concerns that may be there. Address issues as they come and not when they have become a collection as this will only lead to a chaotic situation. Remind yourself that you and your partner are fighting against each other but against a situation as a team.
Gift Giving and Surprises
There is nothing that will get your partner feeling loved, appreciated, and heard more than consistent acts of kindness, like leaving a sweet note in their lunch or planning a spontaneous date night. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by everything else that is in their lives, they will feel at peace whenever you do this. It will remind them that no matter how hard a day they are having, you are still one thing that will consistently be right in their lives.
Encourage Other Interests
Your partner also needs their own ‘me time’ where they can just be themselves and enjoy existing without all the responsibilities being weighed down on them. Encouraging your spouse to pursue their other interests will keep them refreshed and it will also encourage their personal growth. With all the things that they carry during their week and all the responsibilities they have, you need to just let them recharge as a way of easing their burden and making their life easier.
Be Mindful
Sometimes, it may be difficult for your partner to vocalise their feelings and mood to you, especially if you had a fight or if they are sick. In trying to be meek, they may end up receiving the tougher end of everything and just choose to be quiet. You, therefore, need to master their cues and understand what they need when they react in certain ways. Mindfulness will keep you aware of your spouse’s feelings and needs, thus helping you know the intervention steps to take to make them feel better and at ease.
Show Gratitude
Sometimes, our partners do nice things for us, and we end up feeling like we are entitled to these things. We may even end up thinking that these good things are just normal acts. However, you need to understand that gratitude goes a very long way in making your partner feel appreciated. Thank your partner for all efforts (big and small) and you'll notice how it will make them feel better and at ease.
Don’t Over-Criticize
Imagine having someone always ready to tell you about all the things you do wrong every time. Overwhelming and annoying right? Everyone has flaws, and having them highlighted all the time can lead to resentment and it can make your partner feel weighed down. Instead, offer positive reinforcement and you'll see how that will make your marriage better.