Well in my day (don't ya just love that saying)...lol
We would use a few different things, that were taught to us.
One was 'Respect' of ones partner.
That ment no remarks (the are 'smart') like 'sure your going to mow the lawn''?
or ''when is his highness going to move his shoes''?
That kind of banter was not respectful, or even acceptable.It can cause familiarity.Which is turn causes contempt.
Consideration was another.
That if your partner came home, and forgot something he or she was to do, you just said ''that's o.k. maybe tomorrow''.
Not saying ''well you had better get it done tomorrow ''
Understanding:
We are all human, and we all make mistakes...but some partners seem to like to have that given to them, but when it comes down to giving it to their partner....that's a whole different story.
Behaviour is one of the most looked at actions in any relationship...sadly people just don't get-it.