It’s Not Always Easy to Say “I Love You”
Not everyone is smooth with words, even those three little ones worth saying most. The good news is that you still have plenty of ways to convey your affection—and they show your appreciation just as much as words do. Let’s dive into 20 creative ways you can get your message across.
1. Leave Little Notes
Sometimes it’s easier to convey your thoughts in a handwritten note, so why not leave one around the house? Even if it’s something small or an inside joke, you can tuck it in with their lunch, leave it on the mirror, or place it in their pocket for a cute surprise later.
2. Hold Their Hand
Nothing says “I love you” more than physical affection. While that looks different for everyone, hand-holding is a classic no-brainer! Take their hand during movie nights. Reach for them across the dinner table. Hold their hand in the car. There’s no shortage of ways to let them know you’re thinking of them.
3. Small Kisses During the Day
Of course, you could always kick it up a notch with an affectionate smooch during the day. Whether you peck their cheek before work or greet them with one after a long day, it’s a simple gesture with lots of power!
4. Tackle Their Chores
A great way to show affection is by making their life easier. If you see they’ve had a hard day, do the dishes. Tell them to relax while you make dinner. Do an extra load of laundry. Taking care of just one thing could help them in ways you don’t even realize.
5. Give Them a Day Off
Is your partner in need of some TLC? It looks like a day off is in order! From booking them a weekend getaway to giving them the rest of the day off, this gesture lets people know that you acknowledge their struggles and want them to be happy. It’s not always easy asking for help, and reaching out before they do is a good way to show your love.
6. Schedule a Date Night
You can’t go wrong with an old fashioned date night. Book a reservation at their favorite restaurant or splurge on takeout and have a fun night at home. However you show them a good time, handling all the ins and outs takes the pressure off them.
7. Buy a Small Gift
We’re not talking about a lavish expense—the best presents are often the simplest. Even buying their favorite candy bar from the store shows them just how much they mean to you. It’s also a great reminder that they're on your mind (and how well you know them).
8. Partake in Their Hobbies
A night of football may not tickle your fancy, but partaking in a partner’s hobbies shows them that you’re willing to spend time with them. It’s nice for our significant others to see what matters to them also matters to us.
9. Show Your Personality
If saying “I love you” isn’t your style, there’s no shame in joking around with your partner instead. It’s easier for some people to goof off with their significant other, and “I love you, nerd” is just as meaningful as the regular stuff! Remember, your partner chose you and every adorable quirk, so don't dismiss them when it's time for affection.
10. Make Dinner
The quickest way to someone’s heart is through the stomach. Grab your apron and get to the kitchen for a delicious homecooked feast for two. It’s okay if cooking isn’t your forte either—partners will appreciate the effort.
11. Get Silly With Each Other
Some couples are a little weird…and those are the best ones! Silly displays of affection not only show off your personality but also help you bond in unique ways. Whether it’s dancing across the room for a laugh or donning a silly voice, go ahead and get weird!
12. Adult Jokes
Hey, we’re all adults here and that means we can indulge in the fun stuff. Naughty text messages or playful hands during the day let partners know just how much you’re thinking about them.
13. Back Scratching
There’s something about back scratches that get the tingles going. It’s an intimate display of affection that doesn’t have to lead anywhere—it can be a simple gesture that puts your partner at peace. (Don’t forget the favored head scratches either.)
14. Heartfelt Compliments
Nothing reaches the heart faster than a genuine compliment. One of the best things about them is that they show your partner how much you pay attention. There’s nothing lonelier than a partner who doesn’t notice your haircut or a new dress, and true compliments acknowledge the little things.
15. Fresh Laundry
It seems small on the surface, but tossing a partner’s clothes into the wash is a helpful time-saver. Now they don’t have to worry about which shirt they’ll wear to work—you already took care of it. It really is just about the little things.
16. Making Coffee
We all need a morning cup of joe but not everyone has time to brew it themselves. Enter the loving partner! If you wake up earlier than your beau, surprise them with coffee so it’s freshly made when they roll out of bed.
17. Give Them Space
Sometimes the most loving gesture is time alone. From bad days to naturally introverted partners, we could all use a little time to ourselves. Partners who understand each other support that, and it often means more than you think.
18. Long Hugs
When words aren’t your strong suit, a proper hug gets the message across. Lengthy cuddles, especially after a hard day, say more than we ever could (and somehow manage to say it better). Squeeze in some one-on-one time and feel that stress melt away.
19. Steamy Text Messages
They say absence makes the heart grow fonder, and flirtatious texts make it beat even faster. Playing with fire throughout the day can set off that steamy explosion at home, so don’t be afraid to tease them!
20. Fresh Flowers
Everyone loves fresh flowers, and it’s especially creative to gift a stunning bouquet to those who least expect it. We know they’re a little pricey, but your partner will appreciate the effort. Alternatively, you can make origami flowers or just gift them one over an entire display. After all, it's the thought that counts!
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