Most of us assume that our greatest happiness comes from life's big events, like landing our dream job, getting married, or giving birth to a child. While these extraordinary moments create a brief spike in happiness, current research confirms that sustained happiness is derived from life's ordinary, everyday stuff.
You know, the little things that we do for each other that make life feel good. A soft squeeze on the arm when we're worried. A trip out in the rain to pick us up at the bus. A gracious offer to go right ahead and eat that last bite of cake.
As couples, we can easily get caught up in life's endless demands and forget that we aren't running a business together, that life isn't all about tasks and results and who's doing what, when.
Given all our distractions and pressures, it's no wonder we lose sight of the need for small, loving gestures that, in fact, carry great meaning.
It's been said that, in the end, the little things are actually the big things, though we don't realize it at the time.
I say don't wait to discover what's truly important. Even if you're facing big difficulties in your marriage, these small caring gestures may give your relationship a surprising boost.
1. Be here now.
Quality attention. For me it's better than flowers or a candlelight dinner and I bet I'm not alone. Couples often complain that their days are so over-scheduled that their attention gets pulled from one thing to the next. The last thing they want is to talk to a partner whose nose is in his cell phone.
Think you can multi-task? Think again.
Face each other. Make eye contact. Be fully there.
If you spend more than fifteen minutes a day giving each other your undivided attention, talking about something other than kids or logistics, you're a rare exception.
2. Drop everything.
No matter how busy, frazzled, or tired we are, we all have thirty seconds to connect with each other when we walk through the door at the end of the day.
A simple Honey, I'm home, followed by a smile or a hug proves that there really is no place like home.
3. Go the extra mile.
Most of the time, going the extra mile requires little more than going a few steps out of your way.
Whether you fold that one last basket of wash, make your spouse a cup of tea, place a gentle hand on her shoulder, or make a late night run to the grocery store to get milk, these small (and even medium-sized) favors we do communicate love and affection and say, I'm happy to help.
4. Express appreciation.
No gesture is too small or mundane to warrant a sincere word of thanks. You don't have to hire a brass band or put up a billboard. A simple thank you is enough to brighten anyone's day.
Feeling creative? Leave a love note on her windshield. Say nice things about him to others -- and make sure he overhears it.
Beyond saying thanks, acknowledge each others' patience or kindness or willingness to take risks. Sometimes it's extra sweet to be complimented for who we are, not just what we do.
5. Say yes.
Too often (and too quickly) many of us tend to say No. Whether it's a request to clean out the garage, take a hike, or make love, why not pause and ask yourself, Why not say, yes?
Not perfect timing? Not your first choice? Unless the answer really has to be no, watch good things happen when you surprise your spouse with a yes.
6. Check in.
At my daughter-in-law's wedding shower, she asked each of her newly married friends to give her one piece of advice. More than one of them said take a moment to call. Not just when you're running late, though especially then! And definitely more often than you would normally do.
Whether it's a brief phone call or a text message or two minutes of IM, it always feels good to touch base and say, hi.
7. Pucker up.
Try a full six-second kiss. Yes, count it out on your fingers. The difference is... well, you'll see.
While you're at it, a goodnight kiss with the same enthusiasm is a sweet addition.
What better way to begin and end every day?
Now it's your turn: What are your favorite ways to let your partner know that you care?
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