Author’s Note: I must admit that the following list was designed based upon my own recognized flaws and those of women I know. I hope that it helps you decipher whether or not the woman you plan on marrying is worthy of a decent man like yourself.
1. We all know that women can sometimes resort to nagging. I believe that some nagging is warranted, but there are women who badger due to a lack of communication skills. To uncover the truth about the extent of her nagging, the next time she asks you to do something, promise her a time when you’ll do it. If she’s constantly nagging you about it before you do it when you said you would, she may have the “nagging gene.” It’s not necessarily a damaging quality but it can get annoying.
2. If you haven’t already (and I can’t imagine why you wouldn’t have), asked your wife-to-be where she sees herself in five or ten years, career-wise, and as a family. Discuss what her plan is to achieve those goals. A woman who does not have somewhat of an agenda or any ambition will drift aimlessly through life and may never amount to much. You want a woman who knows what her purpose in life is, or at least is willing to try to find one.
3. Tell your lady about your plans and dreams. Talk about what she believes her role will be in helping you achieve them. A wife who cannot be enthusiastic about what you are passionate about, may hinder you from getting where you want to be.
4. Ask your fiancée what she feels her function as a wife is and discuss what you think yours is as her husband. It becomes an ugly situation if what she thinks her responsibility as woman-of-the-house differs from what you think, and vice versa. A couple should know where eachother stands when it comes to something as simple as who cooks dinner and who will do the laundry.
5. Invite her to participate in something you normally do alone, or with friends. If you jog, ask her to come along, if you like to shoot pool, ask her to join you. Not only does this strengthen the bond of friendship, it allows you to see how willing she is to really being involved in your life and the little things that please you. Also, ask your woman to attend a function at work or a family gathering with you. A wife who will be moody all evening or displays signs of jealousy or possessiveness will usually not be a good match for you, especially if you are close to your family. It is best when she has the desire to become a part of your family or shows a genuine interest in your work.
6. Something as minute as a thank you is crucial in a marriage. Many women begin taking men for granted after a while. For one whole week, do little favors for her. Watch to see how appreciative she is of you and see what she does on her own for you in return. Not that giving should be done contingent upon receiving something in turn, but reciprocity is vital as to how valued a person feels.
7. Make some decisions on your own that will benefit the family. (Please don’t do anything drastic like going to buy a sports car without discussing it first.) But take the initiative to flex your decision-making skills and when you approach her about it, a good wife will be proud of her man. One who feels the urge to control all aspects of the relationship will probably attempt to control you as well.
8. I know that affection is critical to maintaining a healthy marriage. A woman who shows minimal affection and attention will not be attractive to you for long. Hug your fiancée when she is busy doing something. Kiss her while she’s doing the dishes. If she brushes you off, it doesn’t necessarily mean she doesn’t love you. It may mean she’s just not feeling it right then. But typically, she should welcome your touch and respond with the sweetness that you came to love.
