My wife and I have been together for almost a year, and we still always kiss goodnight, say I love you before leaving the house, and text each other randomly throughout the day just to say we miss each other. Sure, if I wasn’t in love, I might find what I just said way too mushy. But I care way too much for my wife to let what other people might think get in the way of me showing her how much I love her. If you truly love someone, show them you do by:
1. Touching more
Holding hands isn’t just for those who have recently fallen in love. You should always want to grab your mate’s hand as you walk down the street, or to the mall, or just while you’re sitting on the couch watching TV. Small public displays of affection that are simple and quick show your partner you care. While I’m not advocating for full-on make-out sessions at the grocery store, there’s nothing wrong with hugs or pecks here and there to remind your love just how much they mean to you.
2. Being silly
What’s the point of having your best friend around all the time if you can’t act ridiculous around them? Get into water gun fights or tickle wars, no matter how old you are. Poke fun at each other (in good taste, of course), and don’t get upset when it comes back on you. Plan elaborate pranks that will keep you both on your toes. Use your relationship as a gateway to reminding each other how much fun it was to be a carefree like when you were first in love.
3. Giving gifts and planning surprises
Don’t wait for anniversaries or holidays to give gifts. The best presents are the ones given off-the-cuff, like when you were out at the store and saw something you just knew you had to buy for your love. Surprise movie or dinner dates on a Thursday can liven up a relationship more than you realize. Always go that extra mile to show you were thinking of your significant other.
4. Sending love notes
I mentioned my wife and I text each other to say “I miss you” at random, but it doesn’t hurt to go the extra mile and leave handwritten notes hidden around the house. Or you could go even further and mail out a letter that’s simply to be returned to your home expressing your happiness and love. When you put your words down into writing, you’ll realize just how much you really do care about them.
5. Listening to them
You’ve had a long day, and you just want some peace and quiet. Then the phone rings, and you have to hear about the absolutely atrocious day your significant other had. Don’t blow them off with stock responses like “Yea, that’s awful” or “You gotta be kidding me?” Actually listen to what they’re saying. Help them find a solution to their problems. Truly connect with them, even on their worst days. They’ll appreciate your sincerity, and will be there when you need to vent.
6. Giving thanks and praise
I just started experimenting a bit more with my cooking. While I don’t really care much how my food tastes, and would be happy eating whatever is in the pantry, I thrive off of knowing my wife enjoyed a meal I prepared. At the same time, I work hard to prepare these meals so she can come home and relax. We never take each other for granted, and always give sincere thanks to each other when something is done for us.
7. Take time to enjoy each other
We live in a busy world. It’s important that you take the time to appreciate your significant other. Spend quiet time together to reflect on your memories and plan for your future together. You don’t want to get caught in a rut because life has gotten in the way. Set other obligations aside every day to spend time with the one you love, even if it’s a few fleeting moments of bliss.
8. Continue to grow together
You’re both individuals with independent goals, but you’ve come together because you want someone to share your accomplishments with. As you grow as an individual, be sure to grow with your significant other as well. Don’t wait for something magical to come along that will tell you when to make the next step; be the catalyst, yourself. You may have your own goals in life, but when you’re with someone, you should always work toward a common end together. Featured photo credit: Flickr via farm4.staticflickr.com
