No matter what your personal opinion on Valentine's Day may be, there’s one positive anyone can take from this time of year: Making it a point to show your partner how much you appreciate them. And showing your gratitude doesn't have to come in the form of flowers or a box of candy. There are many ways to make your partner feel appreciated, and to show them how much you love them that can have just as big an impact as any Valentine’s Day date, any time of year. It's all about the small gestures that say, "I see you, love you, and I’m happy you’re part of my life."
Sometimes the biggest impact can come from the smallest and simplest gestures; things like simply being fully present in the moment with your partner, or going out of your way to touch them and show them affection. When it comes to showing appreciation, grand gestures are great, but it's the little everyday ones that can often mean the most. All that matters is that it comes from the heart.
If you want to show your partner how much they mean to you, here’s how the experts suggest you express your love and appreciation.
The smallest acts of service can go a long way toward showing your SO just how much they mean to you, as matchmaker and Rabbi Shlomo Zalman Bregman previously told Bustle. "Whether it's packing your [significant other] a lunch before they rush out to a crazy-hectic day of work, or stopping by the mall to pick up a ... phone case for your [partner] to save [them] a trip — these are the kinds of non-verbal actions that show you are deeply invested in this relationship, and seeking active ways to make your partner's life better," said Bergman. It’s all about showing your partner they are present in your mind and that you’re putting in the effort to take care of them or put a smile on their face.
Life gets busy and it's full of distractions, so putting down your phone and giving your partner your full, undivided attention can really make them feel appreciated and cared for. This is particularly true, as Kiaundra Jackson, LMFT previously told Bustle, when your partner needs a supportive listener. "You do not have to say a word or try to fix any problems, but lending a listening ear can go a long way to make your partner fall deeper in love with you because they feel heard,” she explained.
If you see your partner every day, it's easy to forget to let them know how adorable and amazing you think they are. But Susan Winter, NYC relationship expert, love coach, and author of Breakup Triage: The Cure for Heartache says it’s essential to praise your partner. “It means you value who they are, at their core. Praise shows you're proud of your partner and believe in him or her. This is the powerful fuel that creates a lasting love,” she tells Elite Daily. Remembering to give them sincere compliments is a great way to give them a boost and shows your appreciation for them.
Being the biggest cheerleader of your partner's ambitions lets them know you believe in them and appreciate them for both who they are and who they want to become. “This is the most tremendous support you could provide to your mate,” says Winter. “Understanding 'why' your partner is driven to make their unique contribution to this life is the foundation of understanding them at the deepest level." It's hard not to feel appreciated and seen when you know you can count on your partner to have your back.
Sweet text messages may be the modern equivalent of a love letter, but nothing beats an actual handwritten thank you note to show your partner how much you appreciate them. You can write one to actually thank them for something they did for you, or to tell them you love them for just being themselves. Either way, it’s a physical, hand-written token of your gratitude. As Robert Glatter, M.D., an assistant professor of emergency medicine at Lenox Hill Hospital, Northwell Health, previously told Elite Daily, gratitude proves you’re willing to put in literal work to show your partner how much they mean to you. “[Gratitude] is a sign that you care enough to devote time to honor those who make a difference in our daily lives,” he said. “It’s the effort that truly counts, and means the most to others.”
This article was originally published on
