1.) Physical affection: Almost every guy I have met has a need for physical affection. Whether they grew up hugging their mom each night or not, when boys fall in love they want you to show them. Whether that’s just holding their hand at the park, laying your head on their shoulder, a little kiss after a long day, or late night cuddling. It helps them feel not only loved, but like they are the protector and they are taking care of you.
2.) Giving boys time to be boys: Isaac loves the gym and that was a hard adjustment for me when we got married. That being said, boys need time to destress and get steam off after work. We have found that this time at the gym helps his mental, emotional, and physical health and is so worth the time. Other boys find relief as they ride bikes, play sports, build things, or read a book. Giving them the space and ability to do what they love will allow quality time without the impact of stress.
3.) Food & protein: This doesn’t need explaining. Feed them and they’ll be 10x happier .
4.) Showing appreciation: Okay, this is a little appreciation segment, because the men in our lives work SO hard. I see my husband wake up without me, go to work for hours, and come home ready to help with the house or cook a meal if needed. I am so grateful for him and I don’t think we can express that enough. I saw that more than anything else, that is what my dad needed growing up: he needed to be seen. Try to SEE your husband and all he does for you even in the little things.
5.) Loving his mom and family: Especially if he loves his family, learn how to prioritize making time to visit them in be involved in their lives. This is where he grew up and where his fondest memories came from! I remember the day after I met my husband he had to call his mom and I asked if I could join the call. It was so fun to get to know even the tiniest bit of his background that way. Unknown to me, this was one of the things Isaac cared about the most: that his wife was friends with his mom. Every time I see him with his siblings or childhood friends, I feel like I uncover another piece of who he is.
6.) If you have kiddos, loving them: The kids! Our future partner is also the parent to our future children. There is nothing more sacred than bringing a child into this world and learning how to raise them. Realizing your children are your husband’s children is important. You both have influence on them, but if the mom is the one at home the majority of the time, there must be a trust built up in the marriage.
7.) Doing their hobbies with them/genuine interest in what they love: If you think their addiction to chess has gone wild, play with them! If they love playing pickleball, at least make an effort to play every once in a while. There is nothing more bonding then taking a genuine interest in what they love: even and especially when it may not be our cup of tea. My husband and I have learned to love wood art and have tried to make that a hobby we can do together.
8.) A Happy Wife: It’s just that simple. Be yourself. Be honest. Be genuine. If you’re having a hard day that’s okay. But as much as you can, try to show just how happy he makes you!