Do you find that you and your partner keep ‘missing the boat’? Do you feel unfulfilled or unappreciated in your relationships? Do you struggle to find a way to express your affection for others in ways that they can receive it?
Considered reading up on THE LOVE LANGUAGES (book by Gary Chapman, website: https://5lovelanguages.com/)!
Love Languages are ways that we both receive and express love to others. By understanding our love language, we can improve our communication and relationships with others. The book details 5 different love languages:
Words of Affirmation: These could be verbal or written and may include compliments, praise, recognition, and validation
Examples: “Thank you for…”, “I appreciate you…”, “I like spending time with you”
Acts of Service: This includes doing things for others, but should be focused on the things that they want or need done (as opposed to what YOU want or need)
Ideas: Chores without being asked, ‘extra chores’ like filling the gas tank or doing the dishes, asked “What can I help you with?”
Physical Touch: This includes both intimate and nonintimate touch- cuddling, hand holding, massage, just being close
Ideas: Hugging, kissing, cuddling, dancing
Quality Time: Spending time with the other person, including active listening
Ideas: Cooking together, going on a date or trip, exercising together, reading together, game night, volunteering together
Receiving Gifts: A more tangible way to express your love and affection
Ideas: Something unexpected, something to remind them of a past time/experience
Check out the book/website and think about how (1) you like to receive love and (2) how your partner does (or, better yet- ask them!)!