The Power of Love Languages
We all express our love and affection toward one another in different ways. If you’re like me, one that is constantly looking to nurture relationships that are close to you, you'll appreciate this message I'm about to share with you about expressing love:
"The happiest & healthiest relationships come from those who are invested in both their very own needs and in the needs of their loved ones."
Take some time right now to consider what exactly touches your heart. Also consider what ignites that loving spark for that special someone in your life. For the purpose of this article, let’s call this your love language. There isn't necessarily a right / wrong way to show someone you love them but how you express and show love matters. When we are able to give and receive love in a way that fits in with our life, that's when you'll notice beautiful and remarkable changes in your relationships. Whether it’s a romantic relationship, a friendship, a parent-child or sibling relationship, or all of the above, your relationships deserve attention.
Gary Chapman, came up with 5 ways of expressing love that ultimately can lead to growth in relationships. When we are able to understand how to receive and nurture love by using these love languages, this offers us a closer entry into a happy and healthier bond. Remember, all relationships are different. There's no one size fits all. While you may be one that needs to hear words of appreciation, your loved one may take on an entirely opposite love language. They may prefer to simply sit down on the couch and spend quality time watching television together. Neither is wrong and in fact, both of these expressions of love should be given complete and full attention.
As you work on understanding these love languages, please refrain from the impulse to compare yourself to others. Focus on your inner circle. Take some time to consider what it is that sparks your heart. You have made very special connections in your life with those who in some way compliment you. There is a reason these people are in your life. Reacquaint yourself with what you know about this person. Ask yourself what it is that would make this individual happy and speak that language. This can guide you toward a stronger connection and a closer bond. Let go of any judgment and allow for acceptance.
Take a look at the 5 love languages below to see which one relates to your life and those you hold dearest to your heart:
The FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES
Words of Affirmation
Quality Time
Receiving Gifts
Acts of Service
Physical Touch
Once you have an idea of where you and your special someone fall on this list, the next step is to nurture your relationships accordingly. Remember, the idea is to show this special person love the way that they desire love (and not of your own choosing). They in turn, will do the same for you. This can be a fun experiment to do in the home. I did this with my very own family and it opened the door to much more closeness. Laugh and have fun with it.
If you're inspired by this message and want to continue to be inspired & motivated, below are 2 ways to keep our connection going.