Have you ever felt like your partner just doesn’t understand how to show you affection? Although they may seem like they are trying, the affection that you desire is just not there. However, it isn’t because the love is gone. This common problem is often a miscommunication between your love languages. With some easy relationship advice, you will be on your way to getting that affection that you need.
Every person likes to be treated a little bit differently. How you want to receive love is no exception!
Coined the term ‘Love languages’ it simply means that there are common ways that people express their love for another. They are grouped into five distinct languages that people speak in order to show and receive love.
Often times, and what is important to know is that the way we want to receive love and the way our partner wants to receive it, are different.
However, in order for a relationship to flourish and for a couple to be happy they must understand each other‘s love language. If you want to better understand yours keep reading.
Why Love Languages are Important
Understanding how both you and your partner want to receive love is important for a happy relationship. Everyone of us is different, but there are some commonalities between us.
In 1992, Gary Chapman wrote a book titled The Five Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts. In this book, Chapman outlines the 5 love languages and how to communicate with them.
These are so important to understand because when we speak a different language than our partner, we cannot love as effectively. Most angst and miscommunications in a relationship come from not speaking the same language.
Learn how to get on the same page as your partner by understanding what they need. And just as important, figure out and communicate what you need.
The 5 Love Languages
1. Words of Affirmation
The first love language is Words of Affirmation. This method of showing love emphasizes the need for encouragement, appreciation, and empathy.
If you are somebody who speaks Words of Affirmation then you love when people give you compliments, tell you how appreciative they are for what you do, or when you receive an unexpected message, you feel loved.
These individuals will feel most loved when you verbally tell them. Words mean a great deal to them.
Make sure to avoid not recognizing or appreciating effort when your partner speaks the love language of Words of Affirmation.
They will feel dejected or let down if somebody does not recognize the work that they put in.
Take this relationship advice and use it to help your partner feel loved.
2. Physical Touch
Secondly, the next love language is Physical Touch. Physical Touch includes the nonverbal use of body language and touch to show love.
This includes hugs, kisses, handholding, shoulder rubs, and any other physical touch. You know that physical touch is your primary love language if sitting side by side on a couch so you can physically be touching each other is a thoughtful priority.
If you feel most loved through nonverbal body language, then this might be you. On the other hand, if you do not feel a giant spark every time somebody gives you a hug or kiss, then this may not be you.
Avoiding even the simplest physical touch when dealing with people who feel loved when the touch is genuine can result in a troubled relationship.
3. Receiving Gifts
The next piece of relationship advice is about the third love language, Receiving Gifts. It is another way people express love.
You know Receiving Gifts is your love language if you truly appreciate the thoughtfulness around gifts and gestures.
Whether it is a little box of candy or a new piece of jewelry, you feel loved. A small amount of effort goes a long way with these individuals.
Furthermore, buy them flowers, give them a gift card to their favorite restaurant, or simply put a thoughtful note in their work bag. This piece of relationship advice will work wonders for these individuals.
4. Quality Time
Fourthly, Quality Time is the next love language. Quality Time consist of uninterrupted focused time with your partner.
These individuals feel most loved when you create special moments and spend time with them. Share a meal, an uninterrupted conversation, or go on a spontaneous date.
Just be present and be sure to focus on your partner.
Take this piece of relationship advice and do not be on your phone or be doing something else when you are with them. These individuals want your full attention and for you to Be An Active Listener.
Additionally, they truly appreciate it when you make a special time and day to spend time together. Focus your attention on them and they will be grateful.
5. Acts of Service
Finally, the last love language is Acts of Service. Acts of service include lightening the load for your partner and letting them know that you want to help.
Run an errand for your partner or cook a meal for them. Additionally, complete a household chore that they typically do or help them solve a complex problem they are working on.
These individuals feel neglected if you do not follow through on your commitments. If you feel like you are the only one doing all the tasks and have no one to help you, this might be the love language that you speak.
Use this relationship advice to ensure your love languages are recognized, communicated and listened to.
Love Languages Change the Game!
The best relationship advice is to learn you and your partner’s love language. There is no better tool to help keep your romance alive than to be speaking the same language.
It is okay to have two different Love Language styles between you and your partner. The important thing to know is what you desire and what is important your partner.
Reflect on the 5 different types above and find out what yours is. Talk with your partner learn about theirs. And in the end you will learn to express love in a more meaningful and thoughtful way.
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