If you're always there for them- that's how you love someone. [Not true, it turns out.]
By always doing things for them, that's how you love someone. [Also not true and a quick way to unhappiness.]
Love happens instantaneously and lasts forever. [It's work, work, work.. Oh, and more work!]
The right guy/girl will always let me be right. [Haha... Psych! Real love doesn't mean being right.]
I've come up with a couple of ways that I love the people in my life. Some apply more to romantic relationships than platonic ones.
- Tell them the things that make them great. In sharing with them the things you love most, it can bring the two of you guys closer. Maybe they don't see the things that make them great, or they just need to know that you see them too.
- Be genuine! Sincerely give compliments and praise. Genuinely ask opinions and viewpoints. Listen. Share.
- Don't overdo it. I know I just said to be genuine and sincere, but this doesn't mean sharing EVERY time you're upset or disgruntled. Spend some time alone, digesting your thoughts before you share something. Be genuine, but also a little tough. Know yourself well enough to let the small things go.
- Listen... and when you're done listening, keep listening. A lot of people complain about their partners lack of interest or contribution to conversation... Most of the time this goes back to the fact that they don't feel heard. When you feel that your partner/friend is attentive and listening, you're more likely to share.
- Don't focus on why they need to be different. You can't fix other people.
- Respecting them doesn't mean you have to approve every action or stance. You can't control every aspect of their life! Sometimes you need to love them and step back.
- Don't be a doormat. Sometimes you have to step it up and help those in your life, but not all the time. Healthy relationships doesn't equal being a doormat.
What are the ways that you love the people in your life?
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