FAQ

Find answers to some of the more frequently asked questions on the Forums.

Forums guidelines

Our guidelines keep the Forums a safe place for people to share and learn information.

I want to matter

Balvason2
Community Member

This is prob a stupid thing to write, but I wish that I mattered. 

My wife works part time at a retail store and I spend hours listening to her work and the struggles she has. I work from home mostly so, I collect our son from the bus, get him ready for school do the homework and work a full day from home. 

But no matter what I've achieved during the day, there is always a comment about an improvement or something i could do better. She doesn't kiss me now, She doesn't even let me finish my sentences. The only time she does what i suggest is because she's grumpy and wants to be able to yell at me later and blame being hungry. 

 

I'm tired of feeling defensive every time we talk. I don't want to be angry, I don't want her to be angry with me. 

 

I read the sticky post and have taken a breath. I just feel undervalued. But if i say that apparently I'm calling her horrible.  

 

Obviously, you are only getting my side of the story, and I'm sure there might be things that I'm doing that legitimately annoys her, but we can never get to it because we are always defensive of the other... sorry I know its a blurt. 

1 Reply 1

Croix
Community Champion
Community Champion

Dear Balvason2~

Welcome back to the Forum. Reading your post it looks like you are already of great value. A full day's work , looking after your son and even helping with homework.

 

Also being supportive with your wife when she has had issues at her work..

 

It looks like the only person who suggest you are of no value is your wife, either in words or by her actions. When anyone is consistently undervalued when doing their best there is an unfortunate tendency to believe the criticisms, even though they are unwarranted.

 

I'd be surprised if this situation could continue permanently, it is bad for you , and for your  wife too I expect.

 

May I suggest an outside perspective may help both of you. I'd suggest couples counceling and think that Relationships Australia (1300 364 277) would be a good place ot start. If they do not have an office in your area htey may know of somewhere else suitable.

 

If oyu wish we would like to know how you get on

 

Croix