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A True Leader Empowers, Doesn't Rescue
The Supportive Mentor Method
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Ever feel like you're constantly putting out fires at home?
Your wife struggles, and your first instinct is to swoop in and save the day.
But deep down, you see a flicker of sadness in her eyes – a hint that maybe your "hero" act isn't quite landing.
Imagine your marriage as a beautiful garden. You see a weed poking through, so you pull it out – problem solved, right?
Except, the root is still there, and next week, another weed pops up.
Rescuing behavior is like pulling weeds – it offers a temporary fix, but neglects the underlying issues.
This cycle leaves YOU feeling frustrated and unappreciated. You might even start questioning your role in the relationship.
Is your wife happy? Does she respect you? Are you guys just roommates sharing chores?
These feelings of frustration can fester.
Imagine evenings together, but the mood is tense. You want to connect, but her stress hangs heavy in the air. Over time, this disconnection can lead to a loveless marriage: drifting apart, losing intimacy and building mutual resentment.
Here's the truth: your wife doesn't need a hero; she needs a supportive mentor. She wants to feel empowered to face challenges and grow, not constantly rescued.
Constant "rescuing" can turn your marriage into a never-ending cycle of frustration.
Imagine this: Your wife's stressed about an upcoming work presentation. Your hero instinct kicks in, offering to rewrite her slides. But this creates resentment. She feels you don't trust her abilities, and you end up feeling unappreciated.
The Solution: Be Her Supportive Mentor
Instead of taking over, how can you be the supportive mentor she craves?
Here's how:
1) Listen First, Solve Later: Before offering solutions, truly hear her concerns. Ask: "What are some ideas you've brainstormed for this presentation?" This shows trust in her abilities and problem-solving becomes a team effort
2) Empower Her Growth: Encourage her to brainstorm solutions herself. Guide her towards resources or offer gentle advice, but don't take over. This fosters her self-reliance and confidence and you’ll feel proud
3) Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge her progress, no matter how small. Applaud her for taking initiative. This positive reinforcement motivates her to keep growing. You get the satisfaction of seeing your supportive role lead to her success
4) Let Her Learn from Mistakes: Let her experience the natural consequences of her choices (within reason). This builds resilience, helps her learn from experience and creates less resentment for you.
5) Celebrate Her Strengths: Remind her of her skills and accomplishments. This builds her confidence and admiration for you
Why it works:
Imagine this: Your wife returns from her presentation, beaming with confidence. She gives you a big hug and kiss, sharing her positive feedback and lessons learned.
That's the power of being a supportive mentor – a partner who empowers her to be her best self, creating a stronger and more connected marriage.
By adopting these steps, you'll transition from "hero" to empowering mentor.
Need help applying this?
Reach out to get personalized advice and start becoming the supportive mentor your wife needs today.
"Before Klaudia's advice, I was stuck in a cycle of frustration. Her approach helped me become the supportive partner my wife needed. Our marriage has never been stronger – I couldn't have done it without her!"- Barry, married 9 years.
Until next week,
Klaudia
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