How to get a man to do the housework

1) In a respectful, loving way ask for what you want. Make a clear, specific request about exactly what you want or need.

2) Avoid criticisms and judgments such as, "You never do any housework! You're lazy!" They'll cause a man to feel either ashamed or angered, and neither result will help your cause.

3) Present the issue as a problem for which you need help. But, remember: he is not the problem: getting the housework done is the problem.

4) Even though you've made a request, leave room for new ideas and a full, honest conversation about housework and related issues.

5) Make it personal, e.g. "Honey, it would mean a lot to me if you would clean up the dishes on the nights I cook. Would you be willing to take that on?"

6) Be friendly, encouraging and affectionate; engage the heart more than the head.

7) Don't call a special meeting to discuss housework; in fact, you're better off keeping the whole conversation low-key.

8) Don't belittle or criticise your man for his failings. Build on all the great things he does, rather than criticising all he doesn't do.

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