Look, I’m the last guy on earth who would mansplain anything to my wife.
But sometimes when you want to make a special man in your life happy, it helps to… well, ask him.
As a dude celebrating 10 years of happy marriage this year, I have a little experience under my belt when it comes to the little things that make or break me each day. Over the years, my lovely wife has (sometimes unexpectedly) brightened my days more than I can say with her small, thoughtful gestures.
If you’re looking for a guy’s perspective on the little things that mean a lot to husbands, here’s a husband’s advice.
1. Cook his favorite meal
I’m a simple man. Chances are, so is your husband.
Cooking a meal he loves shows thoughtfulness and care, especially if it's a dish he doesn’t often get to enjoy. Surprise him with an old favorite or try recreating something special from your early days together. Add a personal touch by setting the table with his favorite color scheme or plating the food in a restaurant-style presentation. This simple act communicates love through effort and creativity.
"They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts." — Acts 2:46
Date-night challenge! Plan a candlelit dinner at home, complete with music he loves, and serve the meal as a surprise.
2. Send him a handwritten love note
Remember your mom’s notes in your lunchbox? I do.
In a world dominated by texts and emails, a handwritten note can be incredibly meaningful and a way that you — and only you — reach out to him. Write about why you love him, specific traits you admire, or recount a fond memory. Tuck the note into his bag, wallet, or on his dashboard to surprise him. This gesture shows that you’re thinking about him even during the busiest of days.
"Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart." — Proverbs 3:3
Date-Night Challenge! Spend an evening writing notes to each other and read them out loud over dessert.
3. Give him uninterrupted time to relax
Staying with the “simple man” theme, just like you, sometimes we need to clear out our brain space.
Life can be hectic, and your husband may need a moment to recharge. Create space for him to enjoy his hobbies or relax without interruptions. This could mean taking the kids out for a while or setting up a cozy spot where he can unwind with a good book or game.
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." — Matthew 11:28
Date-Night Challenge! Plan a visit to a quiet church (for Catholics, try silent adoration!) where you can sit quietly together for an hour.
4. Share a compliment in front of others
Sometimes guys can get overwhelmed by the “toxic masculinity” narratives in popular culture. It’s demoralizing.
Praising your husband publicly, whether at a family dinner or a social gathering, boosts his confidence and shows him that you’re proud to be his spouse in front of loved ones, business partners, or acquaintances. Compliments about his work ethic, parenting, or character can make a lasting impact far beyond the evening. Not only that, he will think that you are “tuned in” with him enough to notice his sacrifices. Every man loves an observant wife!
"Encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." — 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Date-Night Challenge! Plan a trivia night where you create questions about each other’s strengths and memories.
5. Plan a surprise outing
If you make the plan, it’s twice as fun!
Take the lead in planning a fun or adventurous day for the two of you. Whether it’s a hike, a visit to a new café, or tickets to a game or concert he loves, the key is to surprise him with an activity that aligns with his interests. He will appreciate that you took the initiative to suggest an outing — and will even add it to his repertoire of favorite places to bring you back to!
"A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." — Proverbs 17:22
Date-Night Challenge! End the outing by getting takeout from a local (not chain!) restaurant neither of you have tried before.