Expectations of Wife from Husband

I’m Amanda Erin, and as someone who’s been married to my amazing husband, Kevin Clarence, for quite some time now, I wanted to take a moment to talk about something I feel isn’t discussed enough expectations in marriage.

We all know that marriage is a partnership, right? It’s about give and take, but let’s face it sometimes there’s a lot more taking than giving. And sometimes, as wives, we have certain unspoken expectations of our husbands that we might not always voice.

But just because we don’t always say them doesn’t mean we don’t have them! So today, let’s talk about the things I, personally, (and many other wives) expect from their husbands. Let’s dig deep and get into the nitty-gritty details, because let’s be real we all want a relationship that thrives!

1. Emotional Support: The Cornerstone of a Strong Marriage

First things first: emotional support. This is the big one. It’s at the core of so many expectations that wives have. Kevin and I know how important this is. Whether it’s work stress, personal challenges, or just the ups and downs of life, we need to know that our husbands are there for us. It’s not just about “being there” physically; it’s about being present emotionally.

Why it matters:

• Women need a partner who can listen, offer a shoulder to lean on, and provide comfort without immediately offering a solution unless asked.
• It’s about knowing that no matter what, your partner has your back and can help you navigate life’s challenges.

Example: I remember a time when I was feeling overwhelmed with work and household responsibilities. Kevin didn’t offer a quick fix. Instead, he simply asked how I was feeling and listened really listened. It made all the difference.

2. Communication: Yes, Talking Matters (A Lot!)

Let’s talk about communication. This one’s a given, right? But seriously, how often do we as wives feel like our husbands just don’t get what we’re trying to say? It’s frustrating!

Why it matters:

• Women value open and honest conversations. It’s important for us to feel heard, understood, and valued.
• Clarity and transparency are key. I mean, if you can’t share your thoughts and feelings with each other, then how can you build a strong foundation?

Example: Kevin and I hit a rough patch early in our marriage because I felt like he didn’t understand why I needed more help around the house. But once we sat down and really communicated about our feelings and needs, everything changed. Sometimes, it’s as simple as saying, “I need help with this,” or “I’m feeling overwhelmed.”

3. Respect and Appreciation: Feeling Seen and Valued

If you’ve been in a long-term relationship, you know how easy it is to get caught in the routine of life. Respect and appreciation can sometimes slip through the cracks, but trust me, these two go hand in hand.

Why it matters:

• Feeling respected and appreciated is essential for any relationship. We all want to feel valued for who we are and what we bring to the table.
• Small gestures go a long way—like thanking your wife for cooking dinner or for the little things she does around the house. It shows you notice her efforts.

Example: Every once in a while, Kevin takes the time to thank me for something as simple as making dinner or doing laundry. It’s the little things that make me feel appreciated, and it doesn’t go unnoticed. Those simple “thank you” moments mean the world.

4. Partnership in Household Responsibilities: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

This one might seem basic, but it’s something that can often cause tension. If there’s a disconnect in how responsibilities are shared, it can lead to frustration. We’re not just talking about sharing a bed here; we’re talking about sharing life’s work.

Why it matters:

• Wives expect their husbands to contribute equally to managing the household.
• Teamwork means dividing tasks in a way that feels fair and balanced to both partners.

Example: Kevin and I divide the household chores in a way that works for us. I do most of the cooking, and Kevin takes charge of the yard work. But when it’s a busy week, he steps in to help in the kitchen without hesitation. It’s about balance and being ready to step up when your partner needs you.

5. Physical Affection: It’s More Than Just Intimacy

Let’s talk about the physical side of marriage. It’s not all about the bedroom (though that’s important too!). Wives want non-sexual physical affection too, like holding hands, hugging, or even a simple touch on the arm. These small gestures of physical intimacy are a way to stay connected and build affection.

Why it matters:

• Physical affection is a way to stay emotionally connected. It shows your partner that you’re still attracted to them and care about them.
• Intimacy doesn’t just happen in the bedroom; it’s built through everyday physical gestures.

Example: Every morning, Kevin gives me a hug before he heads off to work. It’s not a grand gesture, but it’s something that makes me feel loved and connected to him.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Taking Each Other for Granted: It’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget to show appreciation for each other. But the little acts of kindness and gratitude keep the relationship strong.

Not Prioritizing Quality Time: Life gets busy, and it’s easy to let quality time with your spouse slide. Make time for regular date nights or simple moments where you connect without distractions.

Assuming Your Partner Knows What You Want: We can’t expect our husbands to know what we need without telling them. Clear communication is crucial!

Neglecting Intimacy: Whether it’s physical affection or emotional closeness, intimacy is key to a healthy relationship. Don’t let it slip away.

Conclusion: The Heart of a Strong Marriage

In the end, marriage is all about mutual respect, love, and partnership. There are so many expectations wives have from their husbands, but it boils down to one thing: making each other feel valued, supported, and loved.

For Kevin and me, it’s about understanding each other’s needs, staying open to communication, and remembering that we’re a team. When we both give our best, our marriage becomes stronger.

So, what do you think? Are there any expectations you have that you think I missed? Feel free to drop a comment below I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences! Let’s keep this conversation going.

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to share it with someone who might need to hear it. And hey, leave a comment below! I’d love to hear what expectations you have in your own relationships. How do you communicate and connect with your spouse?