LOVE LANGUAGES WHAT’S YOURS? Words by Ambar Ramirez
I know you don’t need me to tell you this but relationships, platonic or more, require a lot of work. Everyone expresses love differently and those differences can either make or break a relationship. Which is where best-selling author Gary Chapman comes in. In 1992, Chapman first revealed the term “love language” in his book “The Five Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate.” Love languages is just a fancy term for how partners experience and express love. But it’s a term that’s truly changed how people navigate the complexities of relationships. The great thing about love languages is that, like love, it’s fluid. You may find that you resonate with one love language, all of them or none at all. Recognizing your love language, or even realizing what it isn’t, can contribute to effective communication, fortifying relationships, and gaining a deeper understanding of yourself. And yes, this applies to platonic relationships as well.
Do you love “good morning” texts? How about being told you’re doing a good job? Do you ask your
Some believe actions speak louder than words. And
partner or friend if they love you at least three times
if that’s your mantra, your love language is proba-
a day? If any of these sounds like you, odds are that
bly acts of service. Rather than simply being told
your love language is words of affirmation.
by your other half that they love you, you prefer it when they show it through actions. It’s a show-not-
Those whose love language is words of affirmation
tell sort of situation.
and encouragement. Simply hearing “I love you” or
Before you let yourself get worked up and start
“I appreciate you” means the world to those who
envisioning outrageously extravagant dates, it’s
resonate with this love language.
important to understand that acts of service is a straightforward love language. It revolves around
Navigating this love language, however, is not al-
the simplicity of little gestures. For instance, imag-
ways straightforward in any relationship, whether it’s romantic or platonic. The key lies in being genuine and expressing verbal affirmations with depth and sincerity. In essence, effective communication becomes your greatest ally. Whether you’re in a relationship with someone whose love language is words of affirmation or you’re the one who values such expressions, it’s crucial to convey your needs and listen to theirs. If your words seem to miss the mark, it’s likely that you might be expressing the wrong sentiments.
ine knowing that your partner typically comes home
ACTS OF SERVICE
WORDS OF AFFIRMATION
thrive on verbal expressions of love, appreciation
to handle the dishes or other household chores; in this case, you take the initiative to complete those tasks before their arrival. Alternatively, it could involve something more elaborate, like planning and preparing their favorite meal. The essence of acts of service lies in paying attention to your partner and conveying your care through actions. It’s about doing things without them having to ask.
