This is a big one and ties in with the communication I talked about in a way. I understand that some people may not feel comfortable expressing their love and appreciation verbally, it is definitely outside of most everyone’s comfort zone in the beginning. But think about how special it is to hear “I love you” or “I appreciate you” from someone who is important to you. 

You may feel loved in other ways, but nothing is like that verbal affirmation. As humans we have this inherent desire to feel loved and appreciated and nothing says “I love you” quite like the words do. There are many ways to feel loved and to show love and I’ll get into that in later, but for now I’m going to focus just on the verbal method. 

I encourage you to challenge yourself once a day to tell someone close to you that you appreciate them. This will significantly improve your relationship by leaps and bounds. You don’t have to say anything specific, although that is an incredible addition to include. Just that you value them and appreciate them. 

This does not just apply to romantic relationships either, it can be applied in every relationship you have; family, friends, coworkers, and even the checkout attendant at the store. Literally everyone benefits from hearing they are appreciated and valued. Tell them you admire them, internally and externally, how they look and how they act. Tell them you admire their character.

Imagine what the world would look like if people stepped outside their comfort zone to make someone else feel special? The divorce rate definitely would not be as high as it is that’s for sure. Yes it is uncomfy to tell someone you love them, but imagine saying it over and over again until you both truly believe it and your relationship benefits from knowing that you add value and appreciate each other. It’s a game changer for any relationship.

If you’re married, tell each other you love each other first thing in the morning and before you go to sleep at night, everyday. Begin and end each day with the knowledge that you are loved by the most important person in your life. I mean, how awesome would that be?! If you are dating, begin the first conversation of the day with telling them you love and appreciate them and end the day telling them you love and appreciate them. 

If you are not in a relationship and regardless of your relationship status, tell your family members you love them daily, tell your friends you appreciate them any time you talk. Take the initiative and be bold. You’ll notice a drastic change in not only your relationship but also your attitude.