Couples that are happy will no doubt stay together. There should be mutual trust and good communication between spouses. Know your spouse and understand their feelings. If you know your spouse then you will know how to make them feel special. Here are 14 ways to make your spouse feel special:
1. Listen to each other without interruption
It is often easier to speak than to listen. We should listen more and speak less. This is a good skill to become wiser, but it is hard for some people. They might say they are listening but often are selective about what they hear. Listen attentive to your spouse, drown out all the outside distractions when your spouse is speaking. Listen then give your point of view without bias. Open up yourself to all conversations and topics. Nothing should be off-limit to your spouse. This is the “getting to know you better” feeling that you should not run away from.
2. Show each other respect
Respect is a major foundation of a good marriage. Do not disrespect your spouse. Avoid arguments and loud brawling. Be civil with each other and talk to each other in a calm, subtle tone. Respect each other’s privacy and space. Set boundaries and obey them always. Do not allow your family members or friend to disrespect your spouse. Stand up for each other against all opposition. If you are united, you shall stand firm and overcome all obstacles.
3. Focus on each other’s feelings
Love is the glue that will hold your marriage together. Let Jesus be the center of your marriage. Show love to each other. Don’t just say “I love you,” show your spouse how much you love them. It is good to say it, but you should also show love. Know your spouse, know what makes them happy and try your best to fulfill that desire. Do not be afraid to show your feelings. If you are hurting and in pain then let your spouse know, do not hide it. Be open and honest.
4. Appreciate each other
Appreciate your spouse, and let them know it. Don’t wait until they pack their bag, and going through the door. Tell them now how much you love and appreciate all the things they do for you. Even the small things. Say “Thank you” on a regular basis. Shower each other with love. Buy each other gifts to show appreciation and love. Do nice things for each other:
Cook their favorite meal
Buy flowers
Make breakfast in bed
Plan a day of fun and excitement
5. Apologize for mistakes
It should be easy to say sorry to each other. It is a good thing to apologize when you make mistakes. Humility shows character and helps to build trust. No one is perfect, we are all prone to mistakes. Just apologize and try not to make the same mistake twice.
6. Help around the house
Do not leave all the household chores to your spouse. You should both help to do them. Whether designated or assigned chores should be a joint venture. If your spouse is working late you can prepare dinner until they get home even if it wasn’t on your to-do list. Being spontaneous and helpful to each other; will encourage a strong bond and lasting relationship. Men should not assume that the household chores are women’s responsibilities. Help each other out.
7. Put each other first
Do not put anyone above your spouse. Make each other feel special every day. Treat your spouse as if they are the most important person in your life. After all, that’s who they are. Do not put your work or other family members above your spouse
8. Express your feelings in letters, text, music, etc.
Express your feelings in every way possible. Do not be one track. Find many ways of showing your love. Send a text message daily. Write a love letter weekly, whatever works for you. Do not keep all the feelings inside. Let it out.
9. Buy each other gifts
Buy your spouse gifts. This is a good way to show your love. You do not need to wait until Valentine’s Day or Christmas to buy presents. Let this be a regular routine. It will be much appreciated and will make your spouse feel special
10. Make your spouse feel secure
Stability and security are very important in marriages. Let your spouse know that you didn’t just say the words “Until death do us part” but you mean them with all your heart. Confirm that you are in it for the long haul. Build solid roots and firm foundations that cannot be easily broken.
11. Be supportive of each other’s goals and dreams
Listen to your spouse and know what their goals and dreams are. Be supportive and give encouragement and assistance where possible; to help them accomplish them.
12. Show interest in hobbies
Find out your spouse’s passion and show fascination and interest. This will allow you to spend more time together exploring these hobbies. By exploring together, you will also develop other common interests that will help to bring you closer together.
13. Seek professional help
If your relationship is falling apart then you can seek the help of a marriage counselor or pastor to help fix it. It is best to ask for help if you cannot do it by yourself.
14. Renew your vows
Spend time each day to remind your spouse of how important they are to you. Let them know that they mean the world to you, and you are still committed for a lifetime. Do not take it for granted that they already know.
Prayer to receive grace to be a good spouse
Father, I come to you in Jesus’ name. Please help me to always treat my spouse with respect. Show us how to live in unity and harmony always. Father let us be completely devoted to you and each other. Thank you for your love. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.