share the love
Love is a behavior.
Jill A. Murray
Valentine’s Day is this week.
Whether you’re a big fan or no fan at all, this much is true:
Opportunities to share the love are all around us, everyday.
Not sure how? The 5 Love Languages is one place to start.
Today we’re sharing 5 easy ways you can share the love with those around you… this Valentine’s Day and everyday!
1. Share the love through physical touch
This one may seem obvious, especially on Valentine’s Day. But the truth is, opportunities to express affection through physical touch are all around us, all the time.
Ideas:
- The next time you’re together, greet your friend with a hug.
- Spend time cuddling on the couch with your child while you watch a movie or read a book together.
- Don’t rush your reunions with your partner. Take time for an unhurried embrace at the end of the day.
2. Share the love through words of affirmation
Not a wordsmith? You don’t have to be! Just a few simple words, spoken from the heart, can make all the difference to the people in your life.
Ideas:
- Send a note of sincere thanks to someone you appreciate.
- Acknowledge an effort or change you see someone in your life making. Let them know you’re rooting for them.
- Owe someone an apology? Dig deep and make it a good one.
3. Share the love through gifts
Maybe you’re on a tight budget. Or maybe you’re trying to declutter your home. Fortunately, gift giving doesn’t have to be extravagant to be meaningful.
Ideas:
- Leave a small gift for a coworker, anonymously
- Donate items you no longer need or use
- Take note of friends’ and family members’ favorites (e.g., colors, flavors, styles), so you can personalize your gifts to them
4. Share the love through acts of service
Anyone can serve others. It’s simply a matter of anticipating the needs around you, and taking a small step to meet one of those needs.
Ideas:
- Is there a chore your partner hates to do? Don’t announce it, just take care of it for them.
- Think about your neighbors. Is there some way you can help them out this week?
- See your child struggling to accomplish a task? Instead of simply doing it for them, ask how you can support them in finishing it themselves
5. Share the love through quality time
Time. It’s maybe the one truly non-renewable resource. All the more reason to use it wisely! Don’t underestimate the value of giving someone in your life your undivided attention.
Ideas:
- Plan a fun activity for you to share with your friends or family
- Offer to join your partner for an event or activity they enjoy more than you do
- Help a friend carve out quality time for themselves by helping connect them with an emotional wellness resource, like therapy
Enjoy this post? You might also like:
How to Practice Gratitude When You’re Not Feeling Particularly Grateful
Self-Compassion: 4 Ways to Start Practicing It Today
Your Emotional Wellness: 50+ Ways to Support It
Need some help learning how to share the love with the people in your life?