It is sometimes tricky to figure out how to show your love on this day that has been commercialized and filled with expectations. It is possible to use Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to feel more connected without breaking the bank. It may be that you use this day as a chance to really think about how the person you care about feels loved. Dr. Gary Chapman, author of “The 5 Love Languages” (www.5lovelanguages.com) suggests that there are 5 ways that people express and interpret love. If you can figure out your partner’s love language, you can show you care and create real connection.
What are the 5 love languages and how do I figure out which one works for my partner?
The 5 love languages are:
Words of Affirmation (compliments, “I love you.”)
Quality Time (giving your full, undivided attention)
Receiving Gifts (thoughtful gestures that require effort)
Acts of Service (“Let me do that for you.”)
Physical Touch (hugs, playful touch, massage, sex)
You can usually figure out which one works best for your partner by paying attention to what he or she does for you. Or, maybe your partner has told you what works.
Once you identify your partner’s love language, you simply need to make a small gesture of love that will reap big relationship rewards. For example, if your partner’s language is Words of Affirmation, you may consider writing him a love letter or giving her a mushy Valentine’s Day card expressing your love. If physical touch does the trick, consider making a “date” for an intimate evening together after the kids go to bed. With a little thought, this could be your best Valentine’s Day yet.
