My husband often compares my cooking and housekeeping with his first wife's. What should I do?

Hurtful comparisons need to be addressed, because they erode your sense of being enough. Tell your husband honestly that such comparisons hurt, and ask him to state what he wants directly without mentioning the co-wife. For example, say: ‘If you like something cooked a certain way, tell me directly; I'm ready to learn.’ At the same time, do not make the comparison the measure of your worth; every woman has her own strengths. If it continues and is demeaning, take it to a more serious discussion or consult a counsellor. Focus on improving yourself for Allah, not to beat anyone. See relationships between co-wives.