It’s easy to overlook how lucky we are to have loved ones, especially when you are accustomed to having them in your life. But appreciation and gratitude are like the water that nourishes a garden. Without it, everything will wither away with time. Not showing appreciation for loved ones is one of the most common regrets people in their old age have. So in today’s article, I want to touch on some ways to appreciate someone you love.
10 Ways To Show Appreciation For Someone You Love
1. Respect And Trust
Trust, loyalty, and respect are the most important attributes in any kind of relationship. Before elaborate gestures of love, I feel like the best showcase of appreciation is to honor someone you love. Show respect for their opinions, feelings, and boundaries. Trust them and show that you have faith in their abilities while also being trustworthy and committed to them.
Related article: 10 Signs of trust issues in a relationship
2. Express Gratitude
Practice vocalizing your feelings of appreciation. Simply say “thank you” for the things they do, whether big or small. Let them know that you recognize and appreciate their efforts. To do this, start by paying attention to what they do for you and practicing counting your blessings. This is a great way to start feeling grateful and to maintain a feeling of genuine appreciation in long-term relationships.
3. Quality Time
I mentioned paying attention to what your loved ones do for you, but that can only be possible if you prioritize them. Spend quality time together doing activities you both enjoy. Show them that you value their company and cherish the moments you share. Avoid distractions, and leave your phone aside while you are spending time together.
4. Write A Letter Or Note
If words fail you, consider taking the time to write a heartfelt letter or note expressing your appreciation for them. Be specific about the things you love and admire about them. Something as simple as leaving small notes of appreciation in their lunch box can go a long way toward making people feel loved and valued.
5. Acts Of Kindness
When was the last time you did something kind and considerate for a loved one? It could be as simple as making them breakfast in bed, doing a chore they dislike, or giving them a call to find out if they are okay. Don’t underestimate the impact of small gestures of kindness. They matter, especially over a long period of time.
Related article: 12 Traits of a long-lasting marriage
6. Listen And Support
Show that you appreciate them by actively listening to their thoughts, feelings, and concerns. Offer your support and encouragement when they need it, because life isn’t always easy. There will be times of tragedy and challenges. People who take the time to be supportive, even in the smallest of ways, give us strength, courage, and hope to overcome hardships. Be that person for those people you love.
7. Compliments
It doesn’t matter how many times you’ve expressed kind words; continue to give genuine compliments. Let them know what you admire about them, whether it’s their personality, skills, effort, or appearance. When I observe marriages rife with conflict, they all share a commonality in regards to complaints and criticism. Partner’s are quick to comment on what they don’t like but fail to match that energy with compliments and kind words. Always remember, good partner’s aren’t trying to upset you intentionally, but they most certainly are trying to gain your appreciation and validation when they make an effort to look good, do good, and be good. Show appreciation for that effort with compliments, and ease up on criticism or complaints over small and silly things.
8. Celebrate Achievements
Celebrate their successes, no matter how big or small. Acknowledge their accomplishments and let them know that you’re proud of them. Most people are starved of appreciation in their lives. If you’re in their inner circle, be a cheerleader for their wins.
9. Surprise Gestures
Routine can quickly lead to monotony and laziness. This can snuff out the spark between romantic partners. As long as you can make an effort to be spontaneous without being prompted to, your partner will appreciate the effort and feel valued. Surprise them with small gestures that show you’re thinking of them. It could be a surprise picnic, a bouquet of flowers, or a thoughtful gift.
Related article: How to be spontaneous in a marriage
10. Physical Affection
Show your love through physical affection, such as hugs, kisses, or holding hands. Physical touch can be a powerful way to express appreciation and love. Married couples who continue to kiss often maintain good levels of intimacy, desire, and satisfaction in their relationship.