Love is More Than a Feeling: It’s Action, It’s Choice

In every strong relationship, love isn’t just something we feel—it’s something we show, speak, and nurture. Love is an action and a conscious choice. One of the most powerful ways to do this is by truly understanding your partner’s inner world—their hopes, fears, values, dreams, joys, and daily stressors. This comes from asking thoughtful, open-ended questions, and staying genuinely curious about who they are today—not just who they were when you first met.

Deepening this understanding strengthens emotional intimacy and ensures you truly know your partner, even as life shifts and changes. Without this depth, it becomes harder to feel seen, understood, or fully loved.

Research highlights the importance of this practice. Gottman’s studies found that 67% of couples experience a decline in relationship satisfaction after the birth of their first child. The 33% who maintain or increase their satisfaction do so because they consistently invest in understanding each other deeply, staying connected through life’s biggest transitions.

Here’s a simple but powerful truth: keeping appreciation to yourself doesn’t strengthen connection—sharing it out loud does. When you notice something you love about your partner, say it. When you feel grateful for something they’ve done, tell them. Expressing admiration aloud nurtures connection and helps love grow.

✨ Try this: Tonight, ask your partner something new—maybe about a recent thought, a dream they’ve been holding onto, or a small joy from their day. And while you’re at it, share one thing you appreciate about them. Every answer adds depth to your understanding of each other, and every spoken word of appreciation strengthens your bond.