When nurturing love and happiness in romantic relationships, people often think of grand gestures – elaborate proposals, expensive gifts, or exotic vacations. While these can certainly be meaningful, relationship expert Linda Bloom emphasizes that small, everyday actions make a difference in cultivating lasting love and contentment.
Meet Linda Bloom, L.C.S.W.
Linda Bloom, L.C.S.W., is a psychotherapist and marriage counselor who teaches relationship workshops worldwide. She and her husband, Charlie Bloom, are co-authors of the widely acclaimed book, 101 Things I Wish I Knew When I Got Married, Simple Lessons to Make Love Last, which has sold over 100,000 copies, and Secrets of Great Marriages: Real Truths from Real Couples About Lasting Love, How One Couple Became Stronger at the Broken Places, Happily Ever After and Thirty-nine Other Myths about Love, and That Which Doesn’t Kill Us: An End to Arguing: 101 Valuable Lessons for All Relationships.
They offer educational and counseling services to individuals, couples, and organizations. They are regular presenters at Esalen Institute and Kripalu Yoga Center.
About the episode
While career success and financial stability are essential, connections with others – incredibly romantic partners – provide the most profound sense of meaning and contentment.
She notes that those with authentic, fulfilling relationships are significantly happier than those who prioritize status, money, or career above all else. The quality of our bonds has a direct impact on our emotional well-being.
Many couples start strong during the initial infatuation stage, showering each other with affection and grand romantic gestures. Many couples struggle if they haven’t developed habits of appreciation and connection. The key is transitioning from infatuation to a more profound, sustainable love, which requires ongoing effort and intention.
Linda shares several examples of small but meaningful gestures that keep love alive:
- Holding hands and sharing something you are grateful for before meals
- Regularly expressing appreciation for specific things your partner does
- Acknowledging their efforts, even for routine tasks
- Cooking their favorite meal
- Doing the dishes or laundry without being asked
- Taking care of errands or chores to lighten their load
- Offering a hug or touch when they seem stressed
- Leaving sweet notes or sending thoughtful texts
- A goodnight kiss and “I love you”
- Cuddling before sleep
- Sharing highlights from each other’s day
Beyond emotional fulfillment, nurturing your relationship through small gestures can have tangible health benefits. By prioritizing daily acts of love and connection, you’re not just improving your relationships but investing in your long-term health and wellness.
In conclusion
Over time, these practices build a foundation of trust, intimacy, and understanding that allows love to flourish. By focusing on these small but meaningful acts of connection, you create relationships that don’t just survive, but truly thrive. Day by day, gesture by gesture, you’ll be amazed at how your relationship and happiness can grow.
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