LOVE
LANGUAGES

Words of affirmation is about expressing affection through spoken words, praise, or appreciation. When this is someone's primary love language, they enjoy kind words and encouragement. They also enjoy uplifting quotes, love notes, and cute text messages. You can make this person's day by complimenting them or pointing out what they do well.

For those who identify with quality time as their love language, love and affection are expressed through undivided attention. This means putting down the cell phone, turning off the tablet, making eye contact, and actively listening. Make sure that you make eye contact, affirm what they're saying, and refrain from offering advice.

A person with this love language feels loved through physical affection. Aside from sex, those who have physical touch as their primary love language feel loved when their partner holds their hand, touches their arm, or gives them a massage at the end of the day, for example.

For acts of service, a person feels loved and appreciated when someone does nice things for them, such as helping with the dishes, running errands, vacuuming, or putting gas in the car. They love when people do little things for them and often can be found doing these acts of service for others.

Gift-giving is symbolic of love and affection for someone with this love language. They treasure not only the gift itself but also the time and effort the gift-giver put into it. They also do not necessarily expect large or expensive gifts; it's more what is behind the gift that appeals to them. In other words, when you take the time to pick out a gift specifically for them, it tells them you really know them.

Knowing your partner’s love language allows you to meet their needs before they even express them. You are less likely to have miscommunication issues if you know how to reach the other person on their level best. This interchange will grow your relationship on deeper levels.

Once you know your partner's love language, it will become more apparent how they use that tenant to try to make please you and show their love. Understanding when your partner uses their love language to show appreciation will help you recognize their efforts to love you.

One of the most significant indicators of a successful relationship is your ability to connect with your partner on multiple levels. If you are trying to express your love in a love language that your partner doesn’t relate to, it is no surprise that there will be a disconnect. Despite your best efforts, they might not receive that affection if you are not using the language that best reaches them.

Once you get into the habit of using the principle of the five love languages to communicate and express love, you will undoubtedly see how it helps you to manage expectations and avoid potential issues in your relationship. Making an effort to reach your loved one on their level will pay big dividends for your relationship. The value will speak for itself once you begin to apply these principles to how you express love and communicate.