Even though you love your husband dearly, that emotion alone isn’t always enough to weather the storm of crazy pandemic schedules, economic hardships and 3 a.m. diaper changes. You need to find ways to cement your bond to give it the durability to withstand all of time’s crazy tests.
How can you do so? It all starts with becoming the type of partner you would like to have. That doesn’t mean tolerating the intolerable or becoming someone you’re not. It does, however, require you to put in the effort to show you care. Here’s how you can strengthen your bond with your husband in six steps.
1. Enjoy the Same Hobbies
You might chuckle back when your mate pokes fun at you looking like a grandma when you pick up the afghan you’re knitting — although he’ll hardly complain when he sits under its finished warmth.
However, you probably give a bit back about “man the mighty hunter” when he heads to the shooting range. Why don’t you accompany him next time instead? He can teach you different techniques like paying attention to your forward hand in any position to stabilize your shot. You can even learn on your own time and impress your hubby on the range.
Alternatively, why not find a new hobby that you can do together? If he loves his brewskis, but you prefer wine, why not combine your brains by playing pub trivia as a team? You might have to wait a bit for your favorite watering hole to reopen, but in the meantime, you can hone your skills at Zoom happy hour with friends.
2. Anticipate His Needs
Do you want a nearly eerie way to show that you care? Once you’ve left the dating game behind, and you don’t have to worry about feeling like a stalker, try to anticipate your partner’s needs and surprise him with thoughtful gifts that solve his problems.
For example, if he’s been griping about what a bear it is to restore a project vehicle without the proper tools, why not look into sets that have all the ratchets and wrenches he needs? If he laments the fact that you can’t nuke leftover french fries without them turning to icky mush, an air fryer lets him reheat his favorite treat to crispy perfection.
3. Learn About His Interests
Do you and your mate fight over the remote control? Instead of complaining the next time he switches the channel away from “Desperate Housewives,” why not ask him about the shows that interest him. Maybe you can’t stand football because of all the controversy surrounding the sport, but you might discover you like the game itself once he explains it.
It’s also a way to learn new skills. The next time you make a “honey-do” request, offer to help. Knowing how to hang a shelfcan come in handy, and you won’t have to remind him of the chore every few days if you keep him company while he does it.
4. Honor Your Anniversaries
Do you expect your spouse to shower you with flowers and chocolates on your anniversary? If so, you better do the same for them.
Why not pack a picnic lunch or arrange a ride for a wine and cheese tasting without worrying about a DUI? If you have enough cabin fever after the last year, book a romantic getaway to one of the nation’s top glamping resorts and sleep in a yurt or a treehouse on your special day.
5. Share in an Adventure
Sharing an adventure, such as going on a hiking or road trip together, will strengthen your bond as you overcome various challenges as a team. It might even make things sizzle more between the sheets.
In the Capilano bridge experiment, researchers asked men to rate a woman’s attractiveness after crossing a tame, supported low bridge or a high, shaky suspension one. Those who made the more perilous trek found the woman more appealing than those who took the safe route. Work that adrenaline to your advantage, ladies.
6. Do Some Good Together
Another way to take advantage of human chemistry to strengthen your bond with your husband is to volunteer. Performing kind deeds causes your body to release a neurotransmitter flood of serotonin, dopamine and oxytocin, all of which make you feel uplifted and more affectionate.
If you both love puppies, but your lease says “no dogs allowed,” why not spend Saturday morning walking dogs for a local animal shelter? If you are concerned about the environment, join a neighborhood or beach cleanup crew together.
Strengthen Your Bond With Your Husband With These 6 Tips
Marriage takes work. If you want to strengthen your bond with your husband, consider the six tips above.