How to Communicate with Him when You are the Breadwinner?

To help your husband live more harmoniously with your fatter paycheck,

• NEVER USE IT AGAINST HIM Don't equate money with power. "If you fight, don't use the money issue to put him down," Dr Richard Lim advises.
• WATCH YOUR TONE Earning more doesn't mean your voice gets louder. It's good thing you're bringing home more because it means you can put aside more for a rainy day or indulge in your passions, says Dr Lim. "However, if your attitude or tone is bad, it will affect his ego. Show him respect as the head of the household."
• MAKING MORE DOESN'T MEAN SHOULDERING MORE Allow your husband to shoulder half the household expenses, Dr Lim advises. "This will make him feel better about himself." If he's not making enough to maintain a minimum standard of living, but don't pamper him too much either. "Don't create an environment where he feels he doesn't need to do anything any more. You must teach him some responsibility," he adds.

Text: Nanny Eliana

Extracted from Family:March 2005