A reader writes:
“My husband introduced me to the idea of a FLR; I was hesitant at first, but the more I read about it, the more excited I got. However, he seems to have gone off the boil and forgets about his submissive duties – even though it was his idea in the first place! What’s going on? Was it just a fantasy, and he can’t handle reality?”
Ah, my dear, welcome to the tantalising tightrope of a Female-Led Relationship (FLR)! You’ve stepped into a role that promises both excitement and challenges, and it seems like you’re experiencing a bit of both. Let’s unwrap this conundrum together, shall we?
Firstly, let’s address the steam that seems to have evaporated from your husband’s enthusiasm. Believe it or not, this hiccup is relatively common in the early stages of embracing a FLR. Initially, the idea is alluring, wrapped in the thrill of the unknown and the excitement of change. However, as the reality sets in, so does the routine, and sometimes, the initial zeal can fizzle. This doesn’t mean he’s abandoning the ship; rather, he may just need a gentle (or firm, depending on your style) reminder of his commitment.
To keep the FLR ship sailing smoothly, regular acknowledgment of his submission is key. This doesn’t mean a constant parade of tasks and rules, but rather, weaving acknowledgement into the fabric of your daily life.
For a submissive to thrive under your control, he must feel submissive. Regularly remind him of his place… and watch him blossom as a servant.
It’s not enough to be doing the housework for you.. He needs to feel like your submissive whilst doing it.
Changing your language to acknowledge his submission
Sometimes, all it takes is a simple change in language to make your man feel natural in his role as your subordinate. Let’s explore how a Dominant woman expresses her gratitude with poise and power, while simultaneously affirming her submissive’s cherished role.
Here are examples of how you can adjust your language to reinforce his role:
Before: “Thanks for making dinner; it was delicious!” | After: “I love coming home to a meal prepared by you. It’s a perfect reminder of your place in our dynamic—eager to please and always on point.” |
Before: “Thanks for cleaning up around the house.” | After: “Seeing the house spotless because of you really shows who’s in charge here, doesn’t it? You do a great job keeping things just the way I like.” |
Before: “Thanks for handling the laundry today.” | After: “Seeing you tackle the laundry while I relax is just how things should be. You’re doing a great job keeping up with my standards.” |
Before: “Thanks for vacuuming the house.” | After: “I love the feel of a freshly vacuumed house almost as much as I love seeing you do it. It’s a good look on you, staying busy while I lounge.” |
Before: “Thanks for washing the dishes.” | After: “I really enjoy my tea while you scrub away. It’s nice knowing you’re there to clean up, just how I prefer things organised.” |
Before: “Thanks for organising the pantry.” | After: “You organising the pantry while I enjoy my book? It’s bliss! Keep everything in its place, just like you.” |
Before: “Thanks for the foot massage.” | After: “Your hands on my feet after a long day? Perfect submission. Keep making yourself useful, it’s exactly where you shine.” |
Before: “You’re doing a great job as a house husband.” | After: “You’ve embraced being my house husband beautifully. It’s not just about the chores, it’s about you fulfilling your role exactly as I desire.” |
Before: “Thanks for focusing on my pleasure tonight.” | After: “Your dedication to my satisfaction is exactly what I expect. Remember, my pleasure always comes first, and you do that so well.” |
Before: “You’re getting better at pleasing me.” | After: “I’m pleased with your progress. It’s clear you’re committed to prioritising my desires, which is exactly how it should be.” |
These simple changes in language make your submissive man *feel* submissive and, therefore, yearn to please.
Navigating Early Hurdles in a Female-Led Relationship – Habits to remind him of his place
In addition to subtle changes in your language, you can also instil regular habits to acknowledge his submission. Let me give you a hint of what this could look like:
- Daily Affirmations: Each morning, have him recite why he chose this path, what he appreciates about your leadership, and one thing he wishes to achieve under your guidance that day. This not only reinforces his role but also keeps him focused and connected to the journey you are both on.
- Reward System: Nothing speaks louder than actions, my dear. Establish a system of rewards that are directly linked to his displays of submission and helpfulness. This could range from extra leisure time to a favourite treat or a special privilege. It keeps the dynamic fun and engaging.
- Public Acknowledgment: In social settings, take the lead in decisions, subtly but clearly. You might decide the menu at dinner or outline the plans for an evening out. A gentle touch on his shoulder or a knowing look can be enough to reinforce the dynamic in a public setting, reminding him of the dance you both are in.
- Task Assignments: Engage him with specific tasks that cater to your needs and desires. This could range from daily chores, like making your morning coffee or managing household duties, to personal tasks, like selecting your outfit for the day or giving you a relaxing foot massage. Completing these tasks should be seen as his way of honouring your leadership.
- Dress Code: Implement a dress code just for him at home. This can be something simple that signifies his role within your FLR, like a particular colour or style that he wears to remind both of you of the dynamic you’re nurturing. This visual cue can be a powerful acknowledgement of his submission.
- Permission Protocol: Establish a protocol where he must ask for your permission for certain activities. This could include personal leisure activities or making social plans. It reinforces your authority and his recognition of it in everyday scenarios.
- Rituals of Respect: Create small, meaningful rituals that serve as constant reminders of his submission and your control. For instance, having him kneel when you enter the room, or kiss your hand in a sign of respect. These gestures can deepen the psychological aspect of the FLR, making the power exchange more palpable and cherished.
- Journaling: Encourage him to keep a journal of his thoughts, feelings, and experiences within the FLR. Regularly, perhaps once a week, have him share entries with you. This not only allows you to acknowledge his efforts and challenges but also helps you guide him more effectively based on his reflections.
- Formal Evaluations: Hold formal evaluation sessions where you discuss his performance in his submissive roles. This could be done monthly or quarterly. Discuss what he’s done well and areas where he needs improvement. This formal acknowledgement of his role will help solidify your dynamic and show that you value the structure and his dedication to it.
- Public Posture: When out in public, even subtle cues like walking a step behind you, opening doors for you, or deferring to you in conversation can be a form of acknowledgement.
These behaviours, when agreed upon, can enhance the sense of FLR without drawing undue attention. Learn more about training him with new habits: https://femaleled.info/the-art-of-submission-teaching-your-husband-rituals/
Your sense of entitlement
Now, let’s talk about nurturing a feeling of entitlement — your entitlement. For many women, this is the crux of the matter. You must feel not just comfortable but entitled to take the lead. This is your show, and he’s not just a passive audience but an active participant, revelling in your command. Embrace this power with grace and confidence. You are not asking for his submission; you are owning the authority that he has offered you.
To cultivate this mindset, start with self-affirmations about your leadership and your rights within this relationship. Practice makes perfect; the more you assert yourself, the more natural it will feel. Encourage open dialogues about your mutual experiences in this FLR. What is he enjoying? What areas feel challenging? This isn’t just about correcting course; it’s about evolving together.
Wrap-Up – Navigating Early Hurdles in a Female-Led Relationship
Navigating the early stages of a Female-Led Relationship (FLR) can be both exhilarating and challenging, as it involves adapting to a new dynamic that may push both partners out of their comfort zones. As you progress, remember that this journey is as much about personal growth and deepening understanding as it is about establishing control. Challenges and doubts are normal, but think of them as opportunities to strengthen your bond, enhance trust, and improve communication.
Maintain an open dialogue and clear rules to ensure both of you know what’s expected and appreciated in this evolving relationship. Embrace your role with both confidence and sensitivity, recognising that leading in an FLR isn’t just about asserting authority—it’s also about fostering mutual respect and commitment that enriches both your lives.
As you continue, remember that your relationship is unique and requires continuous nurturing. Stand firm in your decisions, cherish the progress, and remain adaptable to the learning curves that accompany such a transformative arrangement. This path isn’t just about guiding your partner; it’s about creating a shared future that is empowering and deeply fulfilling for both of you. Embrace this journey with all its intricacies and revel in the growth it brings.
Learn about how to bring all of these elements together into a rewarding and fulfilling FLR with “The Temple” book: https://femaleled.info/the-temple/
Excellent advice as always. But another reason submissive males go off the boil and forget their duties is because they’re not getting what they expected from the FLR. This article addresses one common thing they might not be getting, which is everyday guidance and reinforcement from their partner that boosts their submissiveness. There may be other dynamics at play as well, however.
The submissive male may often believe, for instance, that the FLR was going to lead to their partner taking a stronger lead in the bedroom. Or requiring/permitting their submissive to pamper or worship their mistress’ body. Or more teasing and edging. Or new, more adventurous bedroom activities.
The wife in an FLR can’t consider the prospect of an FLR and say, “sounds great, I get my way and you do all the chores – let’s do it!” without also understanding and following through on the benefits the submissive male may be anticipating to result. Without the spice, for the submissive male, the relationship can quickly devolve into something like eating the same meal, day after day, without any seasoning.
Spot on!
The use of language by a Dominant is definitely a powerful tool in power exchange. It’s particularly important to match it to the style of dominance your submissive craves, while still remaining yourself.
I’m especially sensitive to this myself. For instance, I respond most strongly to gentle dominance, so phrases like “as it should be” when acknowledging service/ obedience are extremely demoralising to me. In contrast, a simple “good boy” or even better “my good boy” is almost like a post hypnotic trigger.
When my limits need to be pushed “endure this for me” works the same way, as it plays into my need to be treated like valuable property.
My point is that submissive men vary and once a dominant woman gets to know what her sub’s needs and aspirations are she’ll unlock the cheat codes to his submission.
I feel similarly, Justin.