I’ve always been the more level-headed one in our marriage, while my husband, Jake, tends to get easily swept up in new ideas and trends. Our relationship was solid until he met Steve, a man with a loud voice and questionable advice. Jake, unfortunately, was drawn to Steve’s self-assuredness and began incorporating his ideas into our own relationship.

One day, Jake presented me with a detailed schedule titled “Lisa’s Weekly Routine for Becoming a Better Wife.” The plan was absurd, requiring me to wake up at the crack of dawn, cook gourmet meals, clean, exercise, and entertain his friends, all while maintaining a full-time job. I was stunned but played along, pretending to agree.

The next day, I created a response: “Jake’s Plan for Becoming the Best Husband Ever.” I outlined the financial implications of his expectations, including the cost of a personal trainer, gourmet groceries, and cooking classes. I also included the salary I would need to give up to fulfill his demands, as well as the cost of a new “man cave” for him and his friends.

When Jake saw my list, he was shocked. I explained that his expectations were unrealistic and disrespectful. I emphasized that a healthy marriage is based on mutual respect and understanding, not on one partner trying to control the other.

Jake apologized for his behavior, realizing how toxic and demeaning his approach had been. We tore up both lists, symbolizing the end of his misguided plans. We learned a valuable lesson about the importance of communication and compromise in a marriage. By confronting the issue head-on, we were able to strengthen our relationship and emerge stronger than ever.