My Husband Created a New Schedule for Me to ‘Become a Better Wife’ —

When Jake slid a paper across the kitchen table titled “Lisa’s Weekly Routine for Becoming a Better Wife,” I was stunned. Influenced by his friend Steve—a single, self-proclaimed relationship expert—Jake’s list demanded I wake at 5 a.m. for gourmet breakfasts, hit the gym, do endless chores, and cook dinner, all while working full-time. Furious but calm, I smiled and agreed to start tomorrow. Instead, I crafted “Jake’s Plan for Becoming the Best Husband Ever,” attaching costs: $1,200 for a trainer, $700 monthly for gourmet groceries, $500 for cooking

classes, and $75,000 to replace my salary since his schedule left no time for my job. I added $50,000 for his man cave. That evening, Jake paled reading my list, realizing the absurdity. “I’ve been an idiot,” he admitted, apologizing for following Steve’s advice. We tore up both lists, laughing. Marriage isn’t about fixing each other—it’s about respect. If Jake forgets again, I’ve got another list ready.