LOVE
More Than Words: Saying “I Love You” Through Actions
“I love you” — few things compare to the reassurance and joy this phrase brings whenever your partner says it.
But as sweet as those three words are, they sometimes aren’t enough to encapsulate your feelings.
When emotions are bursting at the seams, words sometimes fail. And when they do, that’s where actions come in and step up.
Saying “I love you” without even saying anything is very possible.
Actions emphasize what you’re trying to say; sometimes, they even outweigh them. Show your partner how they mean the world to you through these tried-and-true acts.
#1: Pick up their love language
People express and receive love differently.
So, in a relationship, it’s normal for both partners to want two different things. No need to press the panic button!
Express your feelings by understanding each other’s love language — whether words of affirmation, quality time, physical touch, acts of service, or gift-giving.
You may not get it right on the first try, but the fact that you’re learning is enough of a green flag.
#2: Foresee their needs
Grand gestures aren’t always necessary. Your partner’s needs, however, are. They may be small things, but they hold a lot of weight.
Show your love and care and make their days less stressful by being one step ahead of their needs.
Let’s say your partner has a lot on their schedule and needs to take some of their work home when their shift ends. Save them some time by making dinner for you both. Not only does it tick one thing off their daily to-do list, but it also eases their stress.
#3: Listen actively
Saying “I love you” is a strong confession of your feelings, but don’t mistake silence for weakness. Sometimes, it’s the strongest statement.
Ronan Keating had a point when he famously sang, “You say it best when you say nothing at all.”
Keeping silent doesn’t equate to giving your partner the cold shoulder. Instead, it means you’re attentively listening to what they’re trying to say.
Undivided attention is a gem. Make use of it.
#4: Be interested in their interests
No, this doesn’t mean participating in their every hobby. Showing interest means being genuinely curious about your partner’s passions.
They’d be glad if you hopped on, but even a few great questions about their interests will be enough to make them happy. It’s a sign that you’re paying attention, even to the little details.
#5: Know their loved ones
You don’t have to be best friends with your partner’s circle. However, you should, at least, get to know them beyond hi’s and hello’s.
Take the time to connect with their other loved ones. Polite small talk is a great starting point, especially if they initiate it. If they ask you to tag along on small family events, take that as a good sign. They’re slowly integrating you into the bunch.
Saying “I love you” is one thing, but showing it adds another layer. What good are words if you can’t back them up through actions?
