There are a lot of different things that go into having a successful marriage. Love, commitment, honesty and loyalty are just a few of the things every marriage needs. What you often don’t hear people talk about is how to be a more supportive of your spouse.
Being supportive of your spouse is extremely important if you want to have a successful marriage.
You don’t have to agree with everything they do but you should still find a way to be supportive. There are going to be choices our spouses make that we don’t like. Learn to discuss your concerns while still staying supportive.
Remember, it’s not our job to parent our spouse but to be an equal to our spouse.
How To Be More Supportive Of Your Spouse
Listen To Your Spouse
When your spouse speaks to you make it a point to listen to what they are saying. Don’t shut your spouse down just because you are not interested in what he or she is saying.
You are probably the one person in your spouse’s life that they can come to about anything and everything, so make sure you are there to listen.
Listening to your spouse will let them know that you are there to support them. Ask questions and engage in the conversation!
Be Open To New Ideas
There will be times when you spouse comes to you with some new off the wall idea they have.
Just ask my husband! He’ll tell you that I have a new idea every week.
You might be sick of hearing about all of their new ideas but be open to at least hearing their idea. Don’t shut your spouse down!
If your spouse is intent on trying out a new idea be supportive and encouraging.
Be A United Front
Being a united front is incredibly important when you are married. In order to chase dreams and achieve goals, you have to be on the same team!
Even when you might not fully agree with your spouse try to find common ground that will allow you to be a united front.
Let your spouse know that you have his back and will stick by their side.
Be Honest
It should go without saying that you have to be honest with your partner. It’s a major factor in whether your marriage will last!
However, being honest doesn’t mean only saying what you think your spouse wants to hear.
When discussing goals, ideas or any other issues always be honest! If you aren’t on board with an idea your spouse has let him or her know. Just make sure you discuss your concern in an honest and respectful way.
Sometimes laying out what you see as the pro’s and con’s is beneficial and lets your spouse know that you aren’t just shooting down their idea.
Show Your Interest
I don’t love football but my husband does, so I take an interest because it’s something he likes. When he shows me a Raiders video, reads me an article or just tells me something about Derek Carr I listen.
I listen because it’s something that my husband enjoys. I listen because it’s something that’s important to him.
You don’t have to enjoy the same hobbies or have the same goals to show an interest in what your spouse is talking about.
Pay attention to what your spouse talks about and show them that you care. You might be surprised at how happy you can make your spouse by doing something so simple.
Need to work on showing your spouse that you are supportive? Check out this “I Love Us Book” it’s a fun project to do for your spouse and a great way to say I love you!
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