When you find the love of your life and the man you want to spend the rest of your life with, you start learning about what love really is. You will learn that it isn’t about big gestures and cinematic declarations of love like in Nicholas Sparks’ movies. Long-term relationships are about compromise, putting in the effort, and caring for the other as you care for yourself.
And there is nothing that will show your love and gratitude more than sweet small gestures. That’s why relationships are hard for hopeless romantics like us who grew up sobbing in front of “10 Things I Hate About You”. It’s never about big once-in-a-lifetime gestures, it’s about finding out about each other’s love language and learning how to express your love in a way that the other person will understand. So, what are the ways that you can show your man how much you appreciate, love, and value him?
Be Vocal
It’s easy to get lost in all the stress and drama life throws our way, and forget to show our loved ones the gratitude and appreciation they deserve. Don’t underestimate the power of your words. It’s easy to forget to tell your boyfriend that you love his outfit, or that the new haircut looks amazing on him, or to compliment his body. We fall under the false impression that these words don’t mean much because we are obviously in love with them, their bodies, and everything they do, right? This couldn’t be more wrong. Even if you have been together for 20 years, your significant other will still want to hear about how much you love them, how you appreciate the effort they are making for you and your family together, and how much you want them. Constantly saying please, thank you, and throwing compliments at your significant other is essential and important to make them feel loved and appreciated. Don’t take them for granted.
Surprise Him
You don’t have to wait for your anniversary, his birthday, or a big promotion to surprise him. And it’s not always about big expensive gifts. Surprise your loved ones with their favorite home-cooked meal and dine with lavender-scented candles. If your man can’t make up his mind about what he wants, you can still find personalized gifts for men who have everything without having to wait for a special occasion. You can always buy two tickets for you both to go away for the weekend if you know that they have been stressed or working too hard. Maybe a day at the spa, or a massage? There are so many little things that you can do to surprise your loved ones without waiting for the right time.
Always Prioritize Spending Time Alone With Them
Everything that is going on in our lives can make finding time to simply sit or have fun together very hard, especially if you have kids. It’s scientifically proven that built up sexual frustration can make you feel more stressed, unproductive, and even lead to more fights. Some studies even proved that it could shorten our lifespan! The lack of dopamine and serotonin (the feel-good chemicals) can lead to built-up tension between you and your lover, and both parties might end up feeling less loved and wanted. Not to mention the fights that stem from little things like washing the dishes or leaving socks lying around. So always prioritize your sexy time together, explore your sexual fantasies, and try to spice things up a bit every now and then.
Learn How To Listen To Him
In the end, we are all just looking for someone who listens and understands us, our fears, dreams, and our insecurities. It’s so easy to get lost in our busy lives, so it’s super important to stop everything and listen to our loved ones. Be genuine when you ask about their days and really listen to what they are saying. Paying attention to your significant other will enable you to know what really bothers them, what makes them happy, and what scares them. Check in constantly with each other. Even during the busiest days, spare a few minutes to ask about him and how his day is going. It will make all the difference!
We Are Never Too Old To Get Flirty
He might be your boyfriend or even your husband, but there is nothing that will make him feel more valued and appreciated than your actual words. Sending flirty texts or a sexy picture of yourself with something along the lines of how you can’t wait for him to finish work and spend the evening together will really send the message that he is on your mind. You will not only remind him of how much you still want him, but you will also spice things up a bit between you two. Don’t be shy to get handsy too. Showing physical affection in day-to-day activities isn’t about sex or pleasure. Showering your loved ones with casual touches and physical affection is very important to show him that you still can’t get your hands off him after a year or 20 years. This shows how much you find him attractive and appreciate his body even when you are not turned on.
Show Your Support
Most of us only respond to the support of our loved ones. Having a supportive boyfriend should be your number one priority when you are finally ready to settle. Showing your support to your boyfriend is an integral part of any relationship to make him feel seen and valued. If your boyfriend is stressing over something at work, assure him and remind him of his abilities and capabilities to handle anything life throws at them.
Small Gestures Are Everything
Dressing up to go to a fancy dinner while exchanging expensive gifts is fine and important once or twice a year. However, constantly reminding your significant other of their worth and your love depends on small gestures. Making them tea or coffee while you are making one for yourself, always filling up the fridge with their favorite beer or any other cold beverage will really show how much you care about and value their existence in your life.
