Families For Life | Say 'I love you' with 7 simple actions
Have you heard of micro-mance?
A portmanteau of the words ‘micro’ and ‘romance’, micro-mance is exactly what it sounds like – small, romantic gestures that convey your love and appreciation for your spouse. It can be a quick hug, a home-cooked meal, or a sincere compliment. Simple actions like these might seem small, but they’re easy to weave into your everyday routine and can mean so much to your spouse!
Little expressions of affection can also help you show your love more consistently. In fact, regular romantic gestures can do a lot more than occasional grand displays in strengthening bonds. Not sure where to start? Here are 7 ways to say ‘I love you’ through simple romantic gestures!
#1 Show your love through food
Nothing warms the heart like a favourite dish cooked by a loved one! Preparing and sharing the food they love is a simple yet meaningful way to show thoughtfulness and appreciation. Returning home to a warm, home-cooked meal can be something your spouse looks forward to!
Beyond meals at home, you can pack a nutritious lunch for your spouse to bring to work. It’s a simple gesture of care and a gentle reminder that you’ll always be there for them!
#2 Do the chores they dislike
Sharing the chores with your spouse can reduce the load on each other’s shoulders. Sometimes, it could even be a chance to connect. However, when chores become a bore, you can step in with a little micro-mance gesture. Surprise your partner by taking over their chores once in a while and give them a break from doing the tasks they dislike!
#3 Send your love – literally!
In the age of mobile phones, we’re never too far away to express love for our loved ones. Send a simple text message in the middle of the day to let them know you’re thinking of them. Sharing videos they would find funny can also put a smile on their face. It’s a simple act, but it can be a powerful one!
#4 Stay connected through touch
Physical touch can foster a greater sense of security and belonging between you and your spouse. Hold hands, give hugs and kisses, or treat them to a massage! Love through touch can also come across when you help each other with daily routines. Spend some time every morning to comb their hair or smooth their outfit to maintain a deeper level of intimacy.
#5 Showing care and concern
Communication is key in a relationship, and a simple ‘Are you okay?’ can go a long way! Here are some ways you can show care and concern and help your spouse feel like they’re loved. Even when all is well, the act will be appreciated!
Check in with your spouse if they seem down.
Ask about their day when they get home from work.
Find out if your spouse needs help with anything.
Stop what you’re doing and hear them out when they vent.
Set aside time every week to spend together and catch up with each other’s lives.
#6 Find love in little gifts
Love doesn’t need to come wrapped as an expensive gift. Often, it’s the little things that mean the most! Getting a tub of your spouse’s favourite ice cream on your way home from work or buying a pack of chicken rice from their favourite stall can mean just as much (if not more!) than expensive jewellery or a fancy dinner. After all, it’s the small but consistent acts of love that make your spouse feel the most appreciated!
#7 Compliment them at least once a day
A genuine compliment can go a long way to help your spouse feel loved and seen. Think your spouse looks good in the clothes they wore? Let them know! Notice and acknowledge the effort your spouse is putting in, whether it’s at work or at home. It helps to be specific about what you appreciate them for. Your thoughtful words will help them feel good about themselves and serve as reminders of your affection and appreciation.
If you know your loved one’s love style, these acts can go even further! Let’s make loving gestures a habit and show our loved ones that we’re always there for them. Consistent expressions of love go a long way in creating stronger foundations for a marriage that lasts!