by Nancy Anderson
Twenty five years ago, my marriage was on the brink of divorce, but through a series of miracles my husband and I made a decision to rebuild our marriage. This is the second of a four-part series, all about giving your husband the V.I.P. treatment: respect him Verbally, Intellectually and Physically. (Click here to read part one, the introduction.)
Respect Him Verbally
Cut out (OK…cut back) complaining and add in compliments.
If you want to have a peaceful, happy marriage, learn the art of the compliment. Compliments are like magnets and the more you compliment your husband the more he’ll be attracted to you. Begin to notice when he does it right and verbally encourage him by complimenting him at least once a day. If you’re having a hard time thinking of anything to admire, consider these categories: physical traits, mental skills, financial strengths, spiritual growth, or healthy relationships with others (children, parents, or friends).
You may be asking “Hey, why should I compliment him when he NEVER compliments me?” Because, if you want your marriage to grow and bloom, you’ll have to water it with kindness and encouragement. Then, as he sees your sincere efforts, he’ll begin to change, too. Don’t give up.
If you do need to bring up a difficult issue, place it between two compliments, also known as a “Compliment Sandwich.” Here’s an example, “Honey, I know how hard you work for our money and that Sally’s braces will be expensive, but I need your decision before her appointment tomorrow. I hope we can do this for her, but if you want to wait, I trust your judgment. What should I tell the orthodontist?”
Look for part three, Respect Him Intellectually, on Saturday.
To leave a comment, click here.
Guest blogger Nancy C. Anderson is an award-winning author and speaker who loves to teach women and couples to avoid the “Greener Grass Syndrome” by watering their own lawns. Nancy and her husband Ron teach at marriage seminars and banquets. For more information about their speaking schedule and other marriage articles: www.RonAndNancyAnderson.com or their blog www.joyfulmarriage.blogspot.com
