My husband created a new schedule to ‘improve my role as a wife’ — I taught him a lesson in return

I was stunned when my husband, Jake, handed me a schedule to help me “become a better wife.” Instead of blowing up, I played along, determined to teach him a lesson about his misguided approach to marriage.

I’ve always been the level-headed one, while Jake often got swept up in trends. Things changed when he met Steve, a single guy who started giving him questionable relationship advice. Soon, Jake was echoing Steve’s sexist views, critiquing me for everything from takeout to household chores.

Then came The List—a detailed schedule he created for me, titled “Lisa’s Weekly Routine for Becoming a Better Wife.” It included waking up at 5 a.m., daily workouts, cooking elaborate meals, and managing all household chores, all while I worked full-time.

Instead of reacting angrily, I smiled and agreed to follow his plan, secretly crafting my own document titled “Jake’s Plan for Becoming the Best Husband Ever.” I calculated the costs of his expectations: personal training, gourmet groceries, and even the salary I’d lose if I quit my job to meet his demands.

When Jake came home, he was excited until he saw my list. His smile faded as he realized the absurdity of his own requirements. “$75,000 a year? You’re quitting your job?!” he exclaimed, dumbfounded.

I calmly explained that if I was expected to become the perfect wife, he needed to budget for it. The realization hit him hard, and he quickly apologized for being influenced by Steve. We tore up the list together, reaffirming that marriage is about partnership, not perfection.

In the end, this experience reminded us both that a strong marriage is built on respect and equality.