Bring joy to life - 12 Ways To Make Your Partner Feel Loved

If you've been with your partner for a while, you know it’s not all butterflies and sparks. Routines set in, and things can become mundane. Relationship coach Clarissa Silva explains, "As life evolves, we spend less time on romance and more on managing busy schedules." This can lead to underappreciation, but making an effort to express your feelings can reignite the "honeymoon phase" and prevent future issues like resentment or distance. Here are 12 expert-backed ways to show love and strengthen your connection.

1 Follow Through With Promises

Trust is key to whether relationships move forward or fall apart," says relationship expert Stef Safran. If you show reliability and are there when needed, it builds a deeper connection with your partner. It's not about grand gestures but consistent follow-through on small commitments, which over time, contribute to a stronger and more secure relationship.

2. Spend Quality Time and Be Fully Present

Whether it’s planning a weekly date night or staying in, always make time for each other and be fully present. Disconnect from your phone and other distractions to show that you value their company. "Watch a movie without checking your phone or email," says Safran, emphasizing the importance of undivided attention. As Bregman adds, being truly present deepens your connection and helps break away from routine, reminding your partner how much they mean to you.

3 Figure Out Their Love Language

Want to make your partner feel loved? Learn their love language. According to Dr. Gary Chapman, the five love languages—words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time, and physical touch—help us express and understand love. Everyone has a preferred love language, so pay attention to what resonates with your partner and communicate about how you can support each other. "Discover their love language and focus on what makes them happy," says Safran

4 Give A Passionate Kiss

When the moment feels right, a kiss is always a great way to connect—just make sure you have your partner’s consent. Relationship coaches Dana Lam and Martin Kupper suggest, "Look passionately into their eyes before kissing," to build a deeper connection. Instead of quick pecks, take time to deepen the kiss, and your partner will definitely notice the effort.

5 Make Eye Contact

Express gratitude and passion through eye contact. "When you take time to reflect on your gratitude for your partner, they can feel it," says matchmaker Rabbi Shlomo Zalman Bregman. Eye contact alone fosters intimacy, as a 2016 study in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin showed it helps connect with the other person's emotions and thoughts. This nonverbal gesture allows you to anticipate each other's needs and maintain open communication.

6 Do A Small Act Of Kindness

Small gestures that make your partner's life easier show how much you care. "Whether it's packing their lunch or picking up something they need, these non-verbal actions demonstrate you're invested in the relationship and want to make their life better," says Bregman. Even little things like offering to grab dinner or helping schedule an appointment can remind your partner that you're there for them.

7 Touch Them More

Even if physical touch isn’t your primary love language, a gentle, affectionate touch or caress can strengthen your bond with your partner. If you're both open to it, try giving a massage. "Massage increases oxytocin, the brain chemical that promotes bonding," relationship counselor Jonathan Bennett says. "Extended physical touch can help deepen your partner's love for you."

8 Listen To Them

To make your partner feel special, give them your undivided attention. Being a great listener shows appreciation. "You don’t have to say a word or fix any problems—just offering a listening ear can deepen your partner's love because they feel heard," says Kiaundra Jackson, LMFT, marriage and family therapist.

 

9 Recreate Your First Date At Home

 

Bringing out a little nostalgia can rekindle the feelings you had when you first fell in love. "Incorporate small details that will remind you of your night together," suggests Silva. "Dress up, have the same meal, add candlelight—go all out. It’s not just about reminiscing but about reconnecting with the ‘this is why I fell in love with you’ feeling."

 

10 Take An Impromptu Road Trip

Spontaneous moments, like aimless car rides, can reignite those tingly feelings and create an intimate emotional connection. "Hop in the car, turn off the GPS, and drive with no destination," says Silva. "We often get caught up in our routines, but driving together lets you escape, explore new experiences, and strengthen your bond by navigating the unknowns together."

11 Make Them A Gratitude Card

Expressing gratitude is key to a strong relationship. A 2015 University of Georgia study found that gratitude significantly impacts marital quality. Silva suggests, "Surprise your partner with a physical card and a personalized message. You can buy or make one—just place it somewhere they’ll find, like in their laptop or bag." If you're looking to deepen your bond, small gestures like these go a long way. Be authentic and kind, and you're already on the right path.

12 Surprise them with a gift for no reasons

Surprising your partner with a gift for no reason is a thoughtful way to make them feel loved and appreciated. It shows you're thinking of them, even without a special occasion. Whether it’s something small like their favorite snack or a unique item they’ve been eyeing, an unexpected gift can brighten their day and strengthen your connection. For thoughtful gift ideas that are sure to impress, check out our selection at Hannacorner

While it’s important not to rush a connection, small changes can help you feel closer and more loved. Relationships need ongoing effort for long-term success, and little actions can deepen your bond and keep the love alive. Experts emphasize that consistent effort and care in your relationship greatly improve your chances of lasting happiness.