5 easy ways to express your love

Quality Time

Your partner feels loved when you give them uninterrupted time. Watching movies on the couch doesn’t count because attention is divided. How to speak it:

Plan or spontaneously suggest activities to do together, such as going on walks, eating out or playing interactive sports and games.

Words of Affirmation

Your partner craves sincere, generous and specific encouragement. Criticism undermines the relationship, especially if not spoken gently. How to speak it: Sincerely affirm your partner: “Wow, that meal was good.”

“I love your easygoing nature.” “I admire the way you handled that phone call.” Written notes work, too.

Physical Touch

Something as simple as a kiss in public or holding hands speaks volumes to your loved one. How to speak it: Give your partner a back or foot rub. Brush his or her hair. Rather than debriefing the day with words, cuddle on the couch for 15 minutes after work. Hug slowly before rushing out the door in the morning.

Acts of Service

Doing kind things for your partner—without being asked—makes a world of difference. How to speak it: Empty the trash, or walk the dog. Stop procrastinating and fix that leaky faucet. Fold the laundry and put it away. Vaccum up the mess left over from a recent project or the dirt you tracked in after a hike.

Receiving Gifts

This love language doesn’t mean your partner is materialistic or shallow; they simply appreciate thoughtful tokens of affection. How to speak it: Put thought into it! Find and offer up a seashell at the beach or a beautiful feather on the trail. Present an easy-care plant or a paperback book your partner might enjoy.