When a romantic partner says the words “I love you” for the first time, it can send a rush of euphoria through your body. It can also feel like a rite of passage into deeper intimacy—a relationship milestone on par with “marrying” or even having children. But it can be hard to know what the term means in practice. After all, everyone’s ideas about love are different. Some people may think that sex is love; others might believe that showing someone that you care for them shows your love. The truth is, there are many different ways to show someone that you love them—but the most important thing is that you understand what makes them feel loved.
Love encompasses a range of strong and positive emotions, from the most sublime virtue or good habit to the deepest interpersonal affection and even to the simplest pleasure. It’s a topic that has fascinated philosophers, poets, and writers for centuries—and it can still be difficult to pin down its exact meaning.
For example, the word “love” is not only a feeling of great attachment and affection, but it can also refer to a desire for something or someone and the action of praising or extolling it. Moreover, it can apply to a wide variety of things, including non-human animals, principles, and religious beliefs. This complexity has made it difficult for people to agree on the definition of love.
Many people who struggle to express their feelings of love for a significant other have difficulty understanding what they mean in practical terms. This can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts in a relationship. A lack of clarity about what is meant by the word “love” can also prevent a person from knowing what they truly want from their partner.
A few different factors can contribute to the confusion surrounding what love really means. People may have different ideas about what it means to love someone—and they may be influenced by movies, television, or other sources of information that portray certain types of loving relationships. Moreover, a person may be influenced by their family members or friends’ ideas about what love is.
If you are struggling to communicate your feelings of love for a significant other, it’s helpful to get professional guidance. You can do this with a licensed counselor from BetterHelp, who can help you find healthy and fulfilling ways to show your partner that you care for them.
Oftentimes, the best way to show someone that you love them is to do something small and unexpected for them. This could be as simple as leaving them a note in their car, on their bathroom mirror, or with their lunch for work. This can be a great way to let them know that you’re thinking about them throughout the day and that you care for them. It can also make them feel special and appreciated. You can also send them messages of support and encouragement throughout the day—like a relationship quote, for instance.
