Instead of a thousand words: how to say “I love you” with gestures

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Some people can't say the three little words: “I love you.” Although, says psychologist Dr. Barton Goldsmith, there are ten ways that help show your feelings without words:

1. Nothing says “I love you” more than laughing at your partner’s bad jokes, especially if you’ve heard them a hundred times before. Making your significant other laugh is a great way to express your feelings.

2. Find that special thing your partner lost or wanted but couldn’t find. Also, giving your partner a beautifully framed photo of the two of you is a very touching gesture.

3. Many men say “I love you” by washing their significant other’s car and filling it with gas. Taking your partner to a game, concert, car show, or movie that they really enjoy is a great way to show that you want to be there.

4. Help your partner heal from childhood wounds or loss. Perhaps the most powerful thing you can do is simply listen to their story about what happened and offer a supportive hug.

5. Show up at business events as a supportive partner. It’s all about giving. Praising your partner’s efforts in front of everyone you interact with is an opportunity to make your significant other feel loved.

6. When you watch TV, lean against the one you love. Sitting on opposite sides of the room may be comfortable for the body, but it doesn’t satisfy the heart.

7. Cuddling before bed helps to maintain long-lasting love. If you both need your own space to sleep, that’s fine. Just snuggle up to each other for 15 minutes before you fall asleep. By the way, psychologists say that those who cuddle more before bed have healthier sex lives.

8. Do more than usual. Grand gestures from time to time are a great way to show your love. Spending an incredibly enjoyable time together will help create unforgettable memories.

9. Doing something for your partner that he or she hates to do says more than simple words. We all have things we hate to do, and when your partner pulls a spider out of the bathtub or drives in the middle of the night to buy milk for your morning coffee, it really says “I love you.”

10. Being extra polite every day yields great results. Saying “please” and “thank you,” opening the door, helping your partner put on their coat, or putting a little note in their pocket are just a few of the small things that go a long way.

Perhaps after you’ve shown (or been shown) your love in these ways, you’ll find it easier to say those words. Just remember that most of us want to hear them.