Welcome to the final week of the Become a Better Mom Challenge!

If you’re just now joining us, we are so glad you are here. You are welcome to go back and read through the previous posts if you’d like or just jump in with today’s challenge. (The previous posts are all listed at the bottom of this one.)

Now…on to this week’s challenge…

Week 5 Challenge: Make Your Marriage a Priority

I know, I know, this is supposed to be a parenting challenge. But I’ve learned something in the ten+ years I’ve been married. When my marriage stinks, every other relationship is affected. Likewise, when my marriage is running strong, my other relationships are better as well.

In particular, I have learned I’m a better parent when my marriage is strong. Part of being the best mother I can be is becoming the best wife I can be. So this week’s challenge is to make our marriages stronger.

Every day, do something to improve your marriage.

It doesn’t have to be something big. It just has to be something…something intentional that shows your spouse he is still your most important earthly relationship.

Here are a few simple ideas…

Simple Ways to Encourage Your Spouse:

1. Leave him a note to find later in the day (on his car, in his briefcase, in his wallet, on his pillow, etc.)

2. Kiss him like you mean it.

3. XO before you go. (I first read this phrase in Rachel Macy Stafford’s book, Hands Free Mama.  It has become a common phrase in our home. Before anyone leaves, we say, “XO before you go” and gives hugs and kisses.)

4. Pick up his favorite candy bar at the grocery store or quick stop.

5. Cook his favorite meal.

6. Give him a night to himself.

7. Encourage him to take a nap.

8. Call him at work, just to see how he’s doing.

9. Initiate. Need I say more? 🙂

10. Pray for him (and then tell him you did).

I shared more tips on this topic on Sheila Gregoire’s blog last Spring.

Let’s fill the comment box with other ideas too! What do you plan to do this week to make your husband feel appreciated? 

*I recognize that some women reading this might not be married or might be going through an incredibly difficult season in their marriage. If you are a single mom, please read this post and choose at least one thing you will do on this list. If you are married but are struggling through a difficult season in your marriage, please try to take part in this challenge anyway, even if your husband isn’t putting in the same kind of effort. You can’t control his actions; all you can control are your own.

One of the best gifts we can give our children is a solid relationship with their father. Who will join me this week in making their marriage a priority? 

To catch up on the previous challenges:

WEEK 1 CHALLENGE: Spend Time with God Before You Do Anything Else

WEEK 2 CHALLENGE: Stop Yelling

WEEK 3 CHALLENGE: Read to Your Children Daily

WEEK 4 CHALLENGE: Go Hands-Free