She Married You
She Rocks Chores at Home
Chances are, no matter how much you think you do around the house, your wife does more. Sure, men and women are becoming more equal partners at home, but the studies show that she's pulling more than her fair share. Tell her you appreciate that by 1) thanking her, and 2) noting all that she does and 3) balancing things out.
She Handles More Emotional Labor
She's also doing more of the emotional labor—stuff you can't see her doing. She knows what food preferences everyone has, the shampoos each person in the family prefers, everyone's shoe sizes and what's expected of families with regard to school volunteering. She knows what's in the fridge, where "we keep the scissors" and a bunch of other stuff that you should know, too. Show her you appreciate her by learning it.
She Works Hard
Your wife works hard. If it's at an office job outside the home, she works even harder than you know. She probably spends more time on her appearance than you do (not because she's vain but because she knows the game). She's balancing home life and work life, trying to maintain relationships and advance in her career. Appreciate that.
She's Stressed
She stressed, too. Like a lot of Americans, she's working longer hours, has less vacation time and is watching retirement get put off more and more. She might also be bringing work home more often or be required to be on call even on her days off. She still makes time for you, so be sure she knows you appreciate that.
She Won't Ask for Acknowledgment
Have you ever noticed that when she does housework she just does it and moves on? But when you do it, you announce that it's done? It turns out, that's another difference between men and women generally. So, acknowledging her work today (and every day) is a way to show your appreciation, too.
You Don't Do Enough
Men, thankfully, are taking on more household duties. Some even believe they do the same amount as their wives (or more!). There is the rare bird who fits that description but chances are, she's still doing more than you. She deserves appreciation (and a break).
