Have you ever been asked what your love language is and had no idea what the other person was talking about? Not to worry. The 5 love languages are 5 different ways we express and receive love.
In 1992, the book titled ‘The Five Love Languages: How to express heartfelt commitment to your mate’ was published by Gary Chapman. The book essentially states that learning your partner’s love language and your own will help better understand each other’s needs and express how you feel in a way that resonates the most.
The 5 love languages are:
- Words of Affirmation
- Quality time
- Gifts
- Acts of service
- Touch
It is important to understand that we receive and give love in different ways. So, your primary love language to receive love might be quality time and your primary love language to give love words of affirmation. We spend so much time thinking of ways to make the people around us feel loved so why don’t we give ourselves the same attention? Whilst reading through the 5 love languages I strongly encourage you to think about what your love language is and how you can show the same love you show to others to yourself.
Words of Affirmation
If your love language is words of affirmation this means verbal reassurance or maybe even a compliment could go a long way. Words can be powerful for a person whose love language is words of affirmation so choose them wisely!
Examples:
- Communicating throughout day on social media or texting
- “You always see the best in people.”
- “That jumper looks really good on you.”
Quality Time
This love language is all about getting undivided attention without any distractions from phones, TVs or whatever it may be. Make them the center of your attention and you can’t go wrong. If your partner’s love language is quality time, make sure not to cancel plans last minute or postpone time together as this can be make them feel unappreciated.
Examples:
- Trying out a new activity where you work together – an escape room
- A dance lesson
- A homemade 3 course meal
Gifts
This love language is quite straight forward. Now, it doesn’t mean you should constantly shower this person with gifts. But from time to time think of a gift that is meaningful and thoughtful. This person appreciates the meaning behind your gifts.
Examples:
- A gift that relates to an inside joke
- A handmade gift
- A personalised gift – engraving a bracelet
Acts of Service
Actions speak louder than words and if your love language is acts of service you appreciate all things that make your life easier. It might just be doing things that your partner doesn’t really enjoy.
Examples:
- Washing the laundry
- Picking up a parcel
- Making a cup of coffee
Touch
This love language is about being close physically. Physical touch can bring you closer emotionally which is a bonus.
Examples:
- Holding hands
- Hugging
- Giving a massage
Were you able to figure out your love language? If not, there are many love language quizzes online so you can figure out how you like to receive and give love. We hope you learnt something new and can better express how you feel to others and yourself.
By Pooja Depala