Knowing the right thing to say in a relationship is pretty tricky. I've been learning recently that I have to be careful with what I say as there's a lot that can be lost in translation. That said, there are some phrases that should definitely be part of your relationship vocabulary. Here are 6 things to say to your partner every day...or at least every chance that you can get to.
1. HOW ARE YOU?
When was the last time that you asked your partner how he/she is...and actually showed interest in their answer? We usually take this simple phrase for granted but it works wonders. This phrase is something you need to say to your partner every day. Check in with him/her often -- and every once in a while, dig deeper than the usual "I'm fine" response, and avoid the temptation to interrupt when your partner tells their story. It will be so assuring for your special someone to know that you genuinely care about them.
2. WHAT DO YOU THINK?
As much as we love our partners, we remain to be human who have selfish tendencies. It's so easy to think that MY WAY IS THE RIGHT WAY, but a key to keeping your relationship healthy is to consider what your partner thinks. You may be used to making all the decisions in the relationship (especially if your partner is indecisive) but consider what the other person has in mind before running off with your choice. Take note that you are PARTNERS in this -- partners who both have a say, especially with major decisions. It would be so hurtful, for example, to decide to quit a job or make a very big purchase without consulting with your special someone -- especially since it's bound to affect you both, and not just yourself.
3. THANK YOU!
When we're used to doing stuff for each other, there's a tendency to take things for granted. Did your partner pick you up from work and drop you off at home? Say thank you. Did your partner pay for your fastfood lunch? Say thank you. Did your partner help carry your stuff? Say thank you. Did your partner encourage you when you were feeling down? Say thank you.
4. I LOVE YOU.
You may say that "words of appreciation" is not your love language, but there's no excuse to not say I LOVE YOU to a person you truly love. It's very refreshing and comforting to be reassured of love. I once tweeted that love EXPRESSED is what we usually need, so go and say it as you mean it, and then follow it up with action.
5. I'M SORRY.
When in an argument, especially when you're done with the 'rainbows and butterflies' stage of your relationship, our tendency is to be defensive and protect ourselves at all costs. For a relationship to work, we need to be humble enough to admit our mistakes and shortcomings...
6. I FORGIVE YOU.
...and we should also be gracious and forgiving with one another. Whenever I feel disappointed with Natz (or anybody actually), I try to keep in mind how God has forgiven me despite me being...well, me. As the Lord's Prayer says, "forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us."
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