Love. It’s only one word - not even 5 letters - yet it’s more complicated than anything else most of us will experience in our lifetimes. Whether it is a romantic bond or a beautiful friendship or something in between - we make ourselves feel vulnerable while embracing life’s most beautiful moments when we choose love. While love may be an easy sensation to experience, the act of love is a lifelong journey that takes effort and thought to truly succeed. One of the best ways we can do so is by being aware of our own love language and the love language of those we hold dear.
What is a love language you ask? This important expression helps us recognize the way we prefer to express and receive love. Many of us assume that other people feel loved when they experience the same gestures that make us feel loved - but that isn’t always the case. When we assume that the people closest to us share the same ways of feeling loved, we can accidentally worsen the relationship. Communicating these 5 love languages and sharing what you most identify with is an important part of creating a long-lasting connection.
Acts of Service
One great way to show someone that they are cared for is by making their life easier with physical acts of service. This could look like making meals, helping with chores, or simply being there when needed. The focus of this act is making life easier for your loved one. It doesn’t have to be an extravagant experience, but the impact is fully appreciated.
Physical Touch
There’s a reason why hugs are so comforting during times of grief. The physical closeness creates a huge emotional upliftment for many of us. Physical touch is often thought of in a romantic sense through actions like kisses, cuddles, and plenty of other forms. But physical touch like massages and hugs are valued by friends as well.
Quality Time
Everybody wants to know that their presence is enjoyed by others, and many of us also find a comfort in sharing space with loved ones. Quality time is the simple act of giving someone your undivided attention. Letting them know that you enjoy their company more than a phone or any one of life’s many daily distractions.
Receiving Gifts
Gift-giving is an act of love that we’ve all gotten to enjoy on birthdays and certain holidays. The feeling is amplified for many when a gift is given for no reason at all than to simply say “I love you”. Some people enjoy poems while others enjoy jewelry, but all followers of this love language enjoy the thoughtfulness behind this gift.
Words of Affirmation
Words matter, and for some of us they mean everything. Hearing certain affirmations can create a brightness unlike anything else in this world. It may be centered around love, appreciation, encouragement, or anything else. All that matters is that it comes from the heart.
Cover image from Pixabay
