Everyone expresses love in their own way. Where some prefer to do so in words, others bring you a cup of tea when you've had a busy day. According to author and relationship therapist Gary Chapman, there are five different love languages.
Just as there can be miscommunication when someone speaks a different language, this can also be the case when your partner speaks a different love language than you do. For example, you may then feel that your partner values you less when they simply speak a different love language. This is precisely why, according to Gary, it is important for partners to understand each other's love language so that love can flow fully.
Discovering the love language of yourself and your partner? We have listed 5 different love languages.
- Words of affirmation: People who speak this love language value positive and motivating words. Compliments, motivational comments and words of affirmation are important to them.
- Time and attention: Some people feel loved by spending quality time with their partner. This involves undivided attention and sharing activities together.
- Gifts: For people with this love language, gifts, large or small, have deep meaning. They appreciate the effort put into picking out and giving a gift.
- Service: This love language revolves around doing things for your partner, such as household chores, chores, or other actions that show that you care about the other person and are willing to make efforts.
- Physical touch: Some people feel most loved through physical touch, such as hugs, kisses, walking hand-in-hand, and other forms of physical contact.
It's nice to know not only your own love language, but also your partner's. By being aware of your own needs in a relationship and in what ways you feel love the most, you can communicate more effectively with your partner. At the same time, you can discover which expressions of love your partner values most. This can only bring you closer together.
