Love the One You’re With

When February 1st hits, we know Valentine’s Day will soon be upon us. Walk into any store and you will see flowers, boxed chocolate hearts, and “I love you” cards, reminding us that “love day” is coming. Valentine’s Day is the one day of the year that reminds you to love the one you’re with. Yet, this shouldn’t be the only day of the year that we acknowledge and show love to your partner.

Love your partner.

Being intentional about finding ways to show your partner they matter each day of the year can go a long way in making your relationship deeper and more meaningful. Unfortunately, as a relationship ages it’s easy to fall into the trap of taking your partner or significant other for granted. One way to improve the quality of your relationship is to show gratitude every day. Here are some ways to show your partner how much you appreciate them for doing life with you 365 days a year.

Show interest.

The longer you are in a relationship the more the days can seem to run together. Showing interest in your partner’s day or life let’s them know you are interested in them. Show love to your partner by asking about how their day went. Find out specifics. Lean in and make eye contact. Actively listen to what they are saying. Paraphrase what you heard them say and seek to understand what their day was like. It’s the little things that go a long way in a relationship. Communication and listening says, “You are important to me.”

Give compliments.

Words matter. Verbalizing what you love about your partner or what they do for you on a daily basis is important. Compliment and affirm your partner like you did when you first met. If it was important then, it’s important now. Never assume your partner knows how you feel about them. Make sure you tell them.

Surprise them.

I don’t know many people who don’t love good surprises! A surprise communicates that you went out of your way to consider your partner. Plan a date, leave a love note on the mirror or in their car, give them a small gift, or do a task your partner normally does. Don’t underestimate the power of small surprises. They can be a powerful way to love your partner and bring some excitement and romance into your relationship.

Help them relax.

Life can be stressful at times. If you notice your partner seems overwhelmed or discouraged, find a way to help them relax. Offer a back rub or massage. Draw them a warm bath or let them have some time to do their favorite activity. Think about what your partner likes to do to relax and find a way to help them do it.

Do an act of service.

What’s one thing you can do for your partner that they would appreciate? Then, go above and beyond with that act. Many times we get caught up in doing things because we have to. Find something you can do “just because” to show you care.

Watch your body language.

We communicate in many ways, and our bodies often say more than we realize. If you are always walking around with a frown or if when in bed you turn the other way, your partner will notice. Be mindful of how you are acting towards your partner. Smile at them, laugh with them, and touch them in ways to let them know you are there and that you see them.

Give of your time.

Time is one of the most valuable things we can give to someone. Where we spend our time, often shows what we value most in life. Finding ways to spend time with your partner shows them how valuable they are to you. Go for a walk, cuddle up on the couch for a late night conversation, or spend time doing something you both enjoy. Time is something that once it’s gone, we can never get it back. Show the one you love you care by giving them the gift of your time.

Don’t let Valentine’s Day be the only day of the year you show gratitude in your relationship. We never know how much time we will be given with the ones we love. Pick one of the suggestions above and show your partner today how much they matter. May you love the one you’re with this Valentine’s Day and every day!

*Article featured in February 2021 Cenla Focus Magazine.

Be Inspired Counseling & Consulting provides couples counseling in Alexandria, Louisiana, and online counseling to residents of Louisiana.  Our team of compassionate clinicians are here to help! Contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our couples counselors.