“I love you” is one of those phrases that’s said pretty frequently and sometimes without much thought or even much meaning. We may not be moved by the phrase as much as we were in the beginning of our relationship. Sometimes the phase just becomes words—their use becomes more habitual than heartfelt.
In some situations, we even abbreviate “I love you” to “love u” “luv u” or even “<3”. Each of these further diminishes the meaning.
The thing about love is that it must be felt more than it’s simply said. Our spouse needs to feel the love; it not, the words are just meaningless.
Love can usually be demonstrated by the little things you do that remind your spouse they are a priority in your life. For example, make a phone call during the day, not to ask for anything, but just to check-in and say hello. A spur of the moment date night is another great way to make your spouse feel loved and appreciated. Or bringing something special home just because you thought about your spouse could also send a message of love.
In addition to the actions mentioned above, there are also additional phrases that could be said, that not only demonstrate love but say something even a little deeper. Your spouse may need to hear these phrases even more than they need or want to hear “I love you.”
Say “you make me happy.” Can you imagine what hearing this one could do for your spouse? It would be confirmation that things they do as your spouse are recognized and appreciated.
Or what about “I trust you.” Trust is the foundation of every great relationship. It has to be earned. Knowing you’re trusted makes you step up to the plate. It makes you work harder at doing the right thing. It makes you proud.
Another great phrase your spouse would like to hear in addition to “I love you” is “thank you.” Again, people value being appreciated. It won’t matter if you’re thanking your spouse for taking out the garbage, having your childre or making dinner, thank you is the one phrase that isn’t said often enough. Try it, and watch the impact it will have on your spouse.
There are other powerful phrases, that when said will make your spouse melt, such as:
“I’m proud of you.”
“I’m proud to be your wife.”
“I’m proud to be your husband.“
“You’re amazing.”
“You’re beautiful.”
Just to name a few. There are so many other phrases and actions we should be saying and doing for our spouse. It’s easy to forget or get complacent. While we think “I love you” says it all, it doesn’t always. Try a couple of these actions and use a few of these phrases. Believe me, you’ll see a different response from your spouse. Love is more than mere words. It’s about our actions and recognizing additional ways to appreciate and love on our spouse.
BMWK, what other actions or phrases can say just as much as an “I love you”?