5 Ways to Build Each Other Up in a Relationship

Be Present and Listen

Being fully present with your partner allows you to connect on a deeper level. When they’re sharing with you, make eye contact, put down your phone, and focus on what they’re saying without judging or problem solving. Listening attentively makes your partner feel heard and valued.

Offer Words of Affirmation

Offering genuine compliments and words of affirmation can make your partner feel seen and appreciated. Tell them what you admire about them – their kindness, intelligence, sense of humor. Speaking your affection out loud keeps the warmth alive in your relationship.

Perform Acts of Service

Doing small acts of service for your partner like making their morning coffee, folding the laundry, or running an errand shows you care. Identify their love language and offer acts of service that make their life easier. The little things you do to lighten their load will mean a lot.

Give Physical Touch

The power of touch releases oxytocin which promotes bonding and affection. Hold your partner’s hand, give them a massage after a long day, or simply embrace them. Physical touch brings you closer together and nurtures intimacy in your relationship.

Practice Gratitude

Practicing gratitude keeps things in perspective during conflicts. Before bed each night, share one thing you’re grateful for about your partner or relationship. This simple ritual focuses you both on the blessings instead of the struggles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I be more supportive of my partner?

Be fully present when they share with you. Offer words of affirmation about their positive qualities. Do small acts of service to make their life a little easier. Show affection through physical touch. And share what you appreciate about them.

What are some examples of words of affirmation?

Compliment them on their talents, efforts, or positive qualities like “You’re so thoughtful and kind” or “I really admire your intelligence and perseverance.” Speak your affection out loud.

What kinds of acts of service mean a lot?

Make their morning coffee, fold the laundry, walk the dog, make their lunch for work. Identify their love language and do small acts of service in that category. Even simple things to lighten their load show you care.

How does physical touch nurture intimacy?

The power of affectionate touch releases oxytocin which promotes bonding. Hold hands, embrace, give massages, cuddle. Increased physical intimacy brings you closer emotionally and spiritually as well.

Why practice gratitude in relationships?

Pausing each evening to share one thing you appreciate about your partner or relationship keeps things in perspective during conflicts. This simple ritual cultivates thankfulness instead of focusing on struggles.