Would you take relationship tips from your grandparents if it meant making your marriage happier?
Two newly reissued books originally published in 1913, Don'ts for Husbands and Don'ts for Wives, contain hundreds of tried-and-true tips for a happy marriage. These retro tips for wives include meeting your husband on the threshold when he comes home from work and don’t bother him with senseless talk when he is tired; while men are advised to take time to praise their wives about how they look, not to scowl and maintain a pleasant countenance.
These old-fashioned ways could lead to greater longevity, stability, and pleasure for young couples. Here are a few retro relationship tips to try:
Good Old Civility
Talking nowadays seems to sound harsh even when no real anger is actually involved. Making use of classic phrases like ‘thank you’, ‘please’, ‘pardon me’ and ‘may I’, can actually make talking with your partner sound more pleasant.
Love Letters
Love letters are more romantic now than they would have been before because it takes more effort to write a letter than to text or type an instant message.
Single Beds
Although it might seem strange, sleeping in separate beds or even rooms can minimize the chances of marital stress brought about by snoring, blanket grabbing, or tossing and turning in bed.
Keep Same Sex Friends
Give each other space, maintain same-sex friends and keep them.
Take Pride In Your Appearance
Just because you’re already married doesn't give you an excuse to look sloppy. Dress up for certain occasions or dinner for two.
Don’t Go To Bed Angry
Try to settle problems, conflicts, or differences before going to bed.
Go Dancing
Dancing teaches couples to work with each other, as well as bring back the passion in relationships.
Have Fun As A Couple
Play lawn games and board games with other couples. Make sure you get together with couples who have the same positive optimism about marriage and life in the family.
Praise Often
You lose nothing if you give out compliments to your spouse. Dole out praise and give your spouse a renewed sense of self-esteem and confidence in him/herself.
Hand Holding
Hold hands in public, show everyone how happy you are with each other.
Stop Whining
Don’t nag; some spouses tend to complain about everything.
Acts Of Kindness
Little, everyday, thoughtful acts were usually effective means of showing care and appreciation for one another. Stuff like making breakfast for your spouse, getting everything he/she needs ready to go for work can have a positive effect.
With divorce rates higher now than in our grandparents' time, there's a lot to be gained from some good old-fashioned advice.
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