When we think about showing love, for many of us, the first thing that comes to mind is saying, ‘I love you.’
However, actions speak much louder than words, and while it’s lovely to say ‘I love you,’ there are many other ways to show love and affection.
The most effective way to show someone you love them isn’t by muttering three words; it lies in how you interact with that person and the kindness you show them.
Anyone can say, ‘I love you,’ but not all people are very good at actually showing their love and affection. Think about it: How many ways are there to show your love? Well, there’s a lot.
1. Actively listen to them.
When they are talking, don’t tune them out or wait for your turn to talk. Instead, truly listen to them and respond to what they are saying. Show them they have your undivided attention.
2. Check on them.
Randomly send them a message to ask how they are doing or make sure they got home safe after a night out. Show them you care by checking to see how they are and how they are feeling.
3. Write them a sweet love note.
Write a sweet love note and leave it somewhere; they will find it. Don’t be vague or generic; truly make it personal.
4. Explain how important they are to you.
The next time you say, “I love you,” tell them why. For example, you could say, “I love how strong you are, how you are always there for me, and how kind and amazing you are to everyone you know.” It doesn’t have to be a TedTalk, but you get the idea.
5. Get them a thoughtful gift.
Pick out a gift that you know will mean something to them and that you know they will love and cherish. If they collect something, get them something to add to their collection. If they love to cook, buy them a new cookbook. Whatever it is, make it personal.
6. Treat them to an experience date.
Take them out on a date to experience something new. This can be an art exhibit or a museum that has a collection of things that tie into something they have a major interest in. Or, you can just go ice skating. Make it unique, and try to do something they haven’t done yet.
7. Put your phone away.
When you are with them, stow away the gadgets. As tempting as it may be to scroll through Instagram and Facebook, when we do so during our time with others, it sends a bad message: You are not as important as the people I am looking at on social media. Not to mention, it’s rude.
8. Give them your time.
Go out of your way to make time for them, even if it’s ‘inconvenient’ to you. When you make sure to include them in your life, even when you feel like you don’t have much time, you are showing them they are a priority.
9. Spend time with their favorite people.
Make sure not to avoid their friends or miss out on the invitation when they ask you to go along to a family or friend event or night out. When someone includes you to spend time with their favorite people, it’s because they consider you one of them.
10. Be their loudest cheerleader.
Don’t ever miss an opportunity to support and encourage your partner. When someone talks badly about them, stand up for them. When they are doing something important to them, cheer them along.
Source: https://awarenessact.com/