A few weeks back, I witnessed the most adorable display of affection…
Isn’t that just the most lovely gesture? I adore how the writer’s fiancé recognized the significance of reaching 100 subscribers for her, and celebrated it with such a meaningful gift.
After reading that entry, I felt motivated to reflect on all the ways my husband, Max, and I express our care for each other, both big and small. Here are several examples I’ve thought of…
1. On days I feel drained, Max lovingly eases me to bed with a soothing head massage while playing with my hair, which is incredibly comforting. When he’s feeling stressed or worn out, I offer shoulder and foot massages, see how his day went, and share all the amusing things the kids have said or done lately.
2. When something breaks at home, Max jumps in to repair it — right away. Just earlier this week, our oven malfunctioned, and that same evening, I stepped outside as he was grilling and caught him watching “How to fix your oven” tutorials online. By the next evening, our oven was functioning again. In my teenage years, I thought romance was just about moonlit slow dances and love songs. However, as a woman in my 30s, I appreciate having a partner who promptly tackles household challenges, both big and small. That, my friends, is attractive.
3. Since our daughter Ella arrived four years ago, Max has wowed us both with beautiful Valentine’s Day flower arrangements. Honestly, I’ve never received such stunning flowers, and it makes me happy to have a guy with impeccable floral taste! This year, I inquired why he chooses to get such elaborate bouquets for Ella as well, and he said, “Because she enjoys the finer things in life, and it’s so amusing how the arrangements are as large as she is.”
4. Every morning, precisely at 4:30 a.m., I wake to Max’s alarm (that construction worker schedule!) and motivate myself to rise and brew him a fresh pot of coffee. I do this partly to ensure he has a caffeinated drink to keep alert on his early commute. But I also do it to show solidarity during his challenging wakeup times, even though I inevitably crawl back into bed shortly after giving him a farewell kiss at the front door.
5. On the eve of our wedding anniversary (we’ll be celebrating seven years this May!), I always prepare a batch of Joy the Baker’s overnight biscuit cinnamon rolls. Max, who has quite the sweet tooth, goes crazy for these delicious rolls with a touch of nutmeg. I truly enjoy seeing him light up when I present him with a plateful.
What about you? In what ways—big or small—does your partner help you feel loved, and how do you do the same for them? Maintaining our marriage while juggling careers, kids, and the challenges of life can sometimes seem daunting. Yet, over the years, I’ve discovered that seeking out small actions to make your partner feel valued can lead to a tremendous impact.
P.S. Eight comments from readers about marriage—how wonderful are these proposal tales?
# Ways to Show Your Partner They Are Loved and Appreciated
A thriving and satisfying relationship is built on love, appreciation, and mutual respect. Making your partner feel valued enhances your connection and nurtures a deeper emotional bond. Whether starting a new relationship or celebrating years together, small acts of love and appreciation can leave a lasting impression. Here are some ways to ensure your partner feels loved and cherished.
## 1. **Share Your Love Through Words**
Verbal affirmations can significantly affect how appreciated your partner feels. Simple statements like *”I love you,”* *”Thank you for all you do,”* or *”You are everything to me”* can resonate profoundly. Offer genuine compliments and acknowledge their contributions to the relationship.
## 2. **Demonstrate Physical Affection**
Physical closeness is an essential means of expressing love. Hand-holding, embracing, kissing, or even a gentle shoulder touch can instill a sense of intimacy and security. If your partner cherishes physical affection, find ways to weave it into your everyday interactions.
## 3. **Dedicate Quality Time Together**
In today’s hectic life, quality time is a priceless gift you can provide your partner. Set aside distractions like phones and work, and focus on one another. Plan date nights, enjoy walks together, or simply share a peaceful evening at home. The key is to remain present and involved.
## 4. **Practice Active Listening**
Listening is vital in any healthy relationship. Show authentic interest in your partner’s thoughts by maintaining eye contact, nodding, and offering thoughtful responses. Avoid interruptions or dismissing their feelings. When your partner knows they are heard and understood, they feel appreciated.
## 5. **Encourage Their Aspirations and Dreams**
Support your partner’s goals and be their biggest advocate. Whether they wish to start a new hobby, explore a career change, or reach a personal milestone, demonstrate your backing with words of encouragement and assist them in whichever way you can.
## 6. **Engage in Thoughtful Acts**
Small, thoughtful gestures can create a significant impact. Surprise your partner with their favorite beverage, leave a sweet note, or perform an act of kindness just because. These acts show that you’re thinking of them and value their presence in your life.
## 7. **Acknowledge and Appreciate Their Contributions**
Recognize and honor the efforts your partner makes for you and the relationship. Whether it’s preparing dinner, handling household responsibilities, or offering emotional support, expressing gratitude reinforces their significance in your life.
## 8. **Foster Open and Honest Communication**
Healthy communication lays the groundwork for a strong relationship. Be candid about your feelings, needs, and concerns while also encouraging your partner to share theirs. Respectful and honest discussions help cultivate trust and deepen emotional connections.
## 9. **Plan Surprises Now and Then**
Surprises can bring excitement and joy into a relationship. Arrange an impromptu date, present a heartfelt gift, or write a love letter. Thoughtful surprises signify that you invest effort in their happiness.
## 10. **Honor Their Independence and Space**
While it’s important to spend time together, it’s equally essential to give your partner the freedom to pursue their interests and personal growth. Support them in maintaining friendships, indulging in hobbies, and taking care of themselves. A healthy blend of togetherness and independence strengthens the relationship.
## 11. **Share Laughter**
Laughter fosters connection and alleviates stress. Share jokes, watch a comedy, or reminisce about happy memories. Joyful and fun-filled relationships are more likely to withstand challenges over time.
## 12. **Be Supportive During Difficult Times**
Life’s challenges are inevitable, and a supportive partner makes all the difference. Be there for your partner in tough moments, offering comfort, reassurance, and a listening ear. Knowing that they can count on you strengthens trust and emotional closeness.
## 13. **Celebrate Important Occasions**
Make a point of celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and other significant life events. Even minor celebrations demonstrate that you value and cherish the moments you’ve shared together.
## 14. **Exercise Patience and Understanding**
Understand that nobody is perfect, and miscommunications can happen in any relationship. Practice being patient, empathetic, and forgiving. Instead of reacting impulsively, strive to understand your partner’s viewpoint and work through disagreements with love and respect.
## 15. **Keep Romance Alive**
Romance doesn’t have to wane with time. Maintain the sparks by planning romantic gestures, writing love notes, or reminiscing about your early days together. A little effort to sustain romance can make your partner feel profoundly loved.
### **Final Thoughts**
Helping your partner feel loved and appreciated doesn’t need grand gestures.
