As a relationship coach with over 15 years of experience counseling couples, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to make your partner feel loved and appreciated. After all, feeling special and cared for is a fundamental human need. When partners don’t feel valued, resentment can build and emotional connections can weaken.
In my own relationship, I’ve learned that consistently showing love and appreciation results in a positive cycle where my partner is more likely to do the same. The little gestures really do make a big difference when it comes to strengthening bonds. Through research and experience, I’ve found some key things you can do to make sure your significant other feels special every single day.
Speak Your Partner’s Love Language
Over the years, I’ve seen the profound impact of tailoring expressions of love to your partner’s specific needs. As popularized by Gary Chapman’s renowned book “The Five Love Languages,” people give and receive love in different ways. By discovering your partner’s primary “love language” and using it often, you make them feel truly valued.
The five love languages are:
- Words of Affirmation: Expressing verbal appreciation, praise or encouragement
- Quality Time: Giving your undivided presence and attention
- Receiving Gifts: Symbolic tokens of love, big or small
- Acts of Service: Doing helpful deeds and taking chores off their plate
- Physical Touch: Affectionate contact like hugs, kisses and cuddles
While it may be tempting to show love however you’d like to receive it, it’s crucial to cater to your partner’s preferences. Make an effort to speak their love language consistently.
For example, if your partner feels most loved through quality time, regularly put down your phone, turn off the TV and focus completely on them. If physical touch is their language, incorporate more hugging, hand-holding and thoughtful touches.