When was the last time you made someone breakfast in bed? Gave them a cheesy gift just because? It might seem trivial, but in relationships it’s the little things that count. In a recent survey, people felt most appreciated in their relationships when their partner gave them small signs of affection, according to research from The Open University.
After surveying nearly 5,000 people in the UK, researchers found that rather than big romantic gestures, it was the little things—like saying “thank you,” doing the dishes, or listening to them—that made all the difference.
So even if you say those three little words all the time, your bond can still benefit from some nonverbal love. It doesn’t have to be something lavish. Instead, steal one of these sweet gestures to remind your partner how awesome they are:
– Shovel the snow off their car in the morning
– Retweet their corny jokes
– DVR their favorite show… even if it means occasionally deleting one of yours
– Sneak a love note into their pocket (we won’t judge you if it’s a little bit dirty)
– Make a Spotify playlist of their favorite songs
– Save them the last bite of dessert
– Brag about them a little when you know they’re listening
– Post a #TBT of one of your favorite memories together
– Compliment them on something new, like the way they look in hats
– Suggest hanging out with their friends every once in a while instead of yours
– Ask them for their advice on something…and take it
– When they look/smell/taste amazing, tell them
– Help them with a chore they hate, like taxes or laundry
– Wake up 10 minutes early so you can bring them coffee in bed
– Give them a surprise gift (that can be naughty or nice)
– Back them up when they’re involved in a silly—but heated—debate
– Kiss (or text) them goodnight
Arielle Pardes wrote this for Women’s Health Magazine
