My sweetie, Karen, and I are starting a large renovation in our home right now and are now one of the couples doing home improvements. We are going through all the figuring, planning and comparing what we both want with what can be done and with the amount of money we want to put in
to all of this. It is very interesting to be on this side of the table this time. Usually, my clients just tell me what they want to do and then I get the job done. Or, I have to help them make the decisions which at times can feel more like being a counseler rather than a contractor because they both have different ideas of what they want.
One of the things that we are working on is deciding on kitchen appliances. As the one who is going to be doing most of the building of the kitchen I have my idea of what appliances to get and what will work with the space that we have. As a professional chef and the one who does all the cooking, Karen, has her ideas of what she wants for the kitchen.
We were in an appliance store the other day finalizing the ones that we will most likely get. A little sign was posted in an inconspicuous spot that put this all into perspective. It said: Husbands Must Have A Note From Their Wives When Choosing Appliances. We all had a good laugh.
The owner of the store said earlier that week one the couples doing home improvements were standing at his door when he opened his doors in the morning because the husband had been in the day before and ordered all new appliances for their home. This guy said his wife would be fine with whatever he chose. He found out that he was wrong, of course.
So, before you start on your next project take some time to discuss what you both want. You may have to do some compromising to keep your partner happy. But, as one of the couples doing home improvements, remember that your relationship is more important than the color of the walls or the style of faucets to install. It may not be exactly what you wanted but it is not worth stressing over very much.
Check out the video below to get a few tips on what to do if the discussion turns a little heated.
Meaningful Discussions
Meaningful Discussions with Your Spouse
Tags:communication,couples,discussions,home,Home improvement,kitchens,renovation,tips