Gratitude is more than a social nicety; it’s an important tool that reassures your partner that her efforts are both noticed and appreciated. Most people want to receive thanks for their deeds, even if it’s for something that they’re supposed to be doing. When life runs smoothly, people often take for granted the small labors that make that possible. For Week 11 in 52 Love, express your gratitude for those small tasks that improve your life.
Has it been years since you last filled your gas tank or mowed your lawn? Does the laundry fairy fold your socks and place them neatly in your drawer? Do plates and cups magically vanish from the dishwasher and appear in the cupboards? Unless you have a maid or lawn service responsible for those blessings, your partner deserves to hear, “Thank you.”
The power in these two words, especially when the recipient isn’t expecting them, can make her feel seen, appreciated, and treasured. Saying thank you is a simple and effective way to acknowledge your partner’s value to you. Even if you think she knows you appreciate her efforts, strengthen your bond with frequent reminders.
Many people offer these gestures as a reflex to strangers, yet this courtesy is even more important among intimates. Take care to recognize the time your partner spends to make life easier for you, especially given that we are such a time-deprived society. Acknowledge her contributions as a sign of respect. Like the old Tibetan phrase says, “If you take care of the minutes, the years will take care of themselves.”
Give your acknowledgment the power it deserves. Don’t say it in passing. Make your gratitude a moment. Take your partner by the hand, look her in the eyes, and tell her that her efforts matter. Let her know that the things she does make your life more pleasant and enjoyable. And for that, you love her.
If you try this intimacy tip or have a better recommendation, let me know in the comments. For weekly suggestions on how to show your partner love, sign up for my blog, 52 Love, in the sidebar. (This post was updated since its original publication on March 18, 2019.)
Hey Tonya-
Thank you for this piece of homage to constant and consistent gratitude toward those close to us on a regular basis. The words “thank you” are constantly on my lips toward my children, my friends and everyone else I interact with via phone, correspondence of every sort and especially in person. I have always felt that “thank you” is the very least and the very most we can say to our fellow human beings that is why every single language expressed on this planet is taught right after the words “I love you” Thank You, Tonya!
Thank you, Valerie!
You’re right Tonya, your gratitude determines your altitude in life.
Thank you, John.
This is so true. My husband and I have been married for almost 23 years and we thank each other for the “little” things, the chores that the other does. It strengthens our bond and lets us know that we are appreciated. The old cliche “Actions speak louder than words” is absolutely correct.
Congrats on keeping your posts coming. I think they are helping many people and providing good reminders to the people who are doing those things which fit their lives.
Thanks for reading! I’m glad you’re getting something from it.