How to Be Your Wife's Hero

Most men would give just about anything to have their wife see them as a hero. To be afforded that respect and admiration is the dream of just about every married man. Some have been lucky enough to achieve that status. Some of us are still working on it.

What follows are some things that will, if made habit, raise your status with your spouse.

Take charge.

This doesn't mean leave her out of decisions or tell her what to do. It does mean doing what needs to be done in your home. Before she does it, pull out the bills and fill them out, asking her to look them over when you are done. If there are two things that need to be done simultaneously (IE wash dishes and put the kids to bed), ask her if she would rather you did the dishes or put the kids down. A couple of times during the week, spontaneously look for something to clean around the house. Lighten her physical and mental burden without her having to ask you to do it. Make it your goal that she should never have to ask you to do something, do it before she gets a chance.

Work on your communication skills.

This can be tough for men. We don't usually operate this way, but it is important that you both know what's going on in each others' heads. Verbal communication is usually what she will want. If that's tough for you, consider communicating via email or cards and letters. Tell her why you would prefer that method of communication. Take anything critical she has to say into calm, constructive consideration. Be slow to be critical of her. It's ok to voice a concern, just make sure it is worth voicing and not just a transient irritation.

Fix yourself up.

Lose those extra pounds. Eat healthier. Do something instead of parking on the couch and invite her to join you. Wear clean clothes. Smell good when you are around her. Make an effort for her.

Give her a reason to feel proud.

Many women will say they don't want this, but getting flowers at work, where friends and colleagues will see, or surprising her by dropping off her favorite lunch, or dedicating a song to her on the radio station her office listens to, all make her proud of you in front of her friends. A lot of women are competitive and secretly would like to feel envied by their peers. Thoughtful public gestures like these, will give her that.

Be someone's hero.

Help the old person with the flat tire. Pay for the person in line who is short on cash. Women love to see their man coming to someone's rescue. Look for opportunities to make that happen.

Be Godly.

For many women, it is very reassuring, even sexy, to see their spouse actively participate in church and positive men's groups, provided you don't take too much time from her.

Be patient.

For many of us, these suggestions will be a radical departure from our current behavior. Don't be surprised if your spouse doesn't show much reaction until she sees this is going to be a long-term change.

Reap the rewards.

Do these things consistently. Make them a habit, and you will be amazed at how differently your wife reacts to you.