When it comes to the matters of the heart, there’s wisdom behind the adage action speaks louder than words. This is especially true when you’re in the stage of the relationship when saying “I love you” becomes more of a habit than an expression of genuine love.
Fortunately, words aren’t the only love language in the world. Below are ways to show your partner they mean the world to you without actually saying it.
Act Like You’re Still Dating
Look back on the day when you and your other half first met. You’d take every opportunity to flirt with each other. A smile and a wink were enough to send butterflies to your stomach. A random compliment was all you need to have an awesome day. Don’t let that excitement and spontaneity fade away.
Even now that you’re pretty much comfortable with the company of each other, a little flirting goes a long way to keep things interesting. It doesn’t even have to be playful if you think you’re too old for that. Not all couples can pull a Clive-and-Juliana roleplay like Phil and Claire in Modern Family.
Simply hold your partner’s hands while you’re both on the couch watching TV. Drop some compliments when you’re in public and in private. Shoot them a text message in the middle of a busy workday. The point is, do something to make your special someone attractive and wanted.
Prioritize Personal Space
We get it. If your love language is touch, you’d always want to be close to your partner. That’s fine until it isn’t. While constant cuddling and touching is sweet and reassuring, recognize that respecting each other’s personal spaces is crucial to a healthy relationship.
Let her have some alone time to read a paperback and drink her tea. Let him go for a run or watch sports TV in peace. Giving that kind of space shows that you care for each other’s well-being and personal identity.
Undivided Attention
Make your loved one feel their only person in the world you care about. This doesn’t mean, however, that you have to stare at their face the entire day. That’s annoying, not to mention weird.
What you should do instead is put down your phone when you’re together. Stay present and be a good listener. Pay attention to what your other half is saying and keep the conversation going. When you get the chance, randomly bring up something they said weeks later. Doing so sends a message that you value their ideas.
Go Old-Fashioned
Here’s a trick from all-time romantics: hand-written letters don’t get old. Even the shortest words you can muster could seem like the sweetest verse if you take the time to write them down for your significant other. Not so much of a writer? Borrow a poem or two from your pals, Shakespeare and Neruda.
If you want to go the extra mile, consider getting matching engraved rings. We’re not talking about the one from The Lord of the Rings (although, no judgment if that’s your thing). Instead, we’re thinking of a ring that would remind the two of you of your love for each other, wherever and whenever.
There are so many ways, common and extraordinary, to let your partner know how much you love them. Aside from the tricks mentioned above, you can also cook for them or bring them flowers. If you really need to resort to words but are tired of the usual ‘I love you,’ try ‘Thank you’ instead. It is as if you’re saying you appreciate their every effort, big and small, and that you’re simply grateful for their existence.
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