Love is one of the most powerful forces in the world. In relationships, it’s often what makes or breaks marriages, friendships and even business partnerships. Love is a feeling that can be sparked by anything from an intense physical attraction to an overwhelming sense of compassion and empathy for another person. However, while a person may say they love someone, the words alone can be meaningless without the actions to back it up. It’s why so many people struggle with saying the three magical words.
In the modern age, with long-distance relationships becoming more common, saying “I love you” can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are several nonverbal ways to show your partner that you really mean it.
For example, you can make time for romance in your schedule and set aside time for the special moments in your relationship. It’s also important to communicate with your partner regularly. Asking open-ended questions that allow you to get to know each other better can help you build a strong foundation of trust. For instance, you can ask your partner about their dreams and goals to see what they value in life.
You can also give your partner a small gift, such as a bouquet of flowers or a box of chocolates, to demonstrate that you’re thinking about them. This type of gesture shows that you’re willing to go the extra mile to express your love. It’s also a good idea to listen for signs that your partner feels the same way.
A big part of love is putting the other person before yourself. It’s about caring for them and trying to improve their quality of life, rather than being enamoured with their appearance or possessions. It’s about helping them solve problems and reducing the stress in their lives. And it’s about understanding that they won’t always make you happy, but you’ll continue to choose them anyway.
According to a psychological model, love can be broken down into two types: passionate and companionate. The former involves a high level of physiological arousal, like shortness of breath and a rapid heart rate; the latter is more about affection and an overall feeling of well-being.
When it comes to saying those magic words, you’ll want to wait until you feel that passion and closeness, says Mann. She cautions that if you say those words too soon, it could derail the progress of your relationship.
While there will be days (or weeks) when you don’t feel all mushy-gushy in your relationship, it’s still worth it to hang on. Because when you do find true love, it’s something that will last a lifetime. So, don’t let the fear of not feeling that instant, euphoric connection prevent you from proclaiming your feelings. It’s a decision you will never regret making.
