I’m A Better Wife When…

Over my four-year marriage, I’ve noticed that year four was better than year three, that year three (while challenging) brought more insight than year two, and year two was more comfortable than year one. Each year, it seems, has brought us closer together, whether we realized it at the time or not.

I feel this growth in our marriage is directly related to our growth as individuals. When I got married, I was a fresh-faced 22-year-old who knew a little about love, and even less about marriage. I’ve learned so much about my role as a wife, particularly in the area of what my husband needs from me.

I’ve been having a slew of good days recently (if I do say so myself), and just like I take every opportunity to learn something about myself, I had to analyze why I’ve felt so on the ball lately.

I’m a better wife when…

…I remember that arguments are temporary bumps in the road, and the longer I hold a grudge, the more difficult I make it for us to get back on track.

…I relax.

…I focus on the lessons learned in the past, but don’t dwell on our mistakes.

…I get a good night’s sleep (don’t judge me…you know how it is).

…I ask for and receive help from my husband in a manner that makes us both feel like we’re part of the same team.

…I feel appreciated.

…I remember to let go and let God handle it.

…I pray for my husband regularly.

And as much as I try to make sure I am the best wife I can be every single day, I admit that every day ain’t all roses. But my take on that is: everyone is entitled to have a bad day every once in a while. I just try to make sure my “bad days” aren’t “intolerable days.” LOL.

BMWK family, fill in the blank. “I’m a better spouse when _________.”

Tara Pringle Jefferson is a freelance writer, blogger and PR professional living in Ohio with her husband and two kids. She’s also Managing Editor of BlackAndMarriedWithKids.com. Follow her on Twitter or check out her blog for her insights on what it means to be a mom, wife, student, writer, and about three other labels she’s too tired to remember.

About the author

Tara Pringle Jefferson is managing editor of BlackAndMarriedWithKids.com. She’s also the author of Make It Happen: The Young Mommy Guide To Creating The Career You Crave. Follow her on Twitter or check out her blog for her insights on what it means to be a mom, wife, student, writer, and about three other labels she’s too tired to remember.

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