Showing Gratitude in Marriage: 5 Simple Ways to Show Appreciation for Your Spouse

As we begin the month of November, it is typical for many to focus on gratitude this month. With the celebration of Thanksgiving coming up near the end of November, it’s natural for us to take advantage of the theme of this holiday and extend it to become a month-long reflection. We can think about all that we have to be grateful for and even more so, put it into action by showing gratitude this month. While we will be talking a lot about gratitude with our children this month, I wanted to take a moment and share how showing gratitude in marriage can be just as important and will also help your children!

Showing Gratitude in Marriage: 5 Simple Ways to Show Appreciation for Your Spouse

1. Do something nice for your spouse: Sometimes a simple gesture can go a long way. I know this can be true for my husband. He may not always verbalize his thoughts, but he’s quick to bring home my favorite candy bar after I’ve had a frustrating day with the kids. That is his way of doing something nice for me. On the flip side, he appreciates it if I fill up the tank with gas so he doesn’t have to stop in the morning before work. They’re simple gestures, but they’re appreciated.
2. Give a homemade gift: While this is not something we particularly do in our marriage, I know plenty of couples enjoy occasionally giving each other small gifts. For an extra special touch, try giving your spouse a homemade gift rather than a store-bought item!
3. Cook her/him a meal: Any time a meal is made for your significant other, you are taking time and (not to sound cliché) pouring love into that meal. But, really – it takes effort to make that meal! Take time to make your spouse his or her favorite meal and show you care and appreciate them.
4. Take him/her out: If it’s been a while since you’ve had a chance to get out of the house together, then make plans for a day or night out with your partner! Schedule a babysitter, make reservations, pack a picnic, or simply go shopping together. The idea is to go and have fun together!
5. Simply say thank you: Of course, one of the best and simplest ways you can show gratitude in marriage is by saying thank you each day for those everyday actions! I know it’s easy to get wrapped up in our daily routines. While we don’t take care of our responsibilities expecting to be thanked for every detail, it’s certainly nice to be appreciated. Did your spouse make dinner or take care of the laundry? Say thanks! Did he or she help you out with something that was bothering you? Show your appreciation.

Showing Gratitude in Marriage Helps Children Learn Gratitude!

I’ve seen that showing gratitude in marriage with simple gestures and by verbally saying thank you has really helped to remind us that we’re not taking each other for granted. Another plus is that I see our children picking up on our gratitude habits. They will even call us out when we don’t say thank you to each other! Kids truly do see everything! But, it’s a good reminder that by modeling and showing gratitude in marriage, we are helping our kids learn about gratitude! And, isn’t that the message we want to share with our children this November, which is also National Gratitude Month?

What other tips can you share with us for showing gratitude in marriage?

All photos © Melanie Edwards/modernmami™