Wednesday, August 27, 2008

The Little Things That Count




This is something that has been on my mind the last few days and thought that it would be something good to serve as a reminder that the little things in a relationship are important. We all know that there are major things that are required of a couple to make the relationship work. But often it's so easy, as we race through each day trying to accomplish an impossible number of tasks, to forget about those we love. Soon, and often unintentionally, one partner, or both, are left feeling unappreciated, overlooked and in need of some serious "TLC."
Logically, we all know that a relationship must receive attention if it is to grow. Realistically, few of us take the time to fan the relationship flames as often as we should. But help is on the way.
Showing your special someone how much you love them doesn't have to take a lot of time or cost a lot of money. In fact, it's better if it doesn't -- it's the little things that we remember most. So don't wait until next Valentine's Day to show your significant other that you love and appreciate them. Try to incorporate at least one of these romantic ideas into your partner's day, everyday (and when you've done them all, keep going by creating your own, or repeat the cycle!)
Little things count in relationships -- just think back to your last argument with your spouse. Chances are it was over a mundane, little thing. Meanwhile, most people can instinctively rattle off at least a few (but probably many) little things their mate does that drives them crazy.

So I thought that I would touch on a few of the little things that make me smile:

25 BIG Little Things to do for Your Loved One
1. If it has been a month or perhaps for some a decade or more since you told your spouse why you love them, surprise them with a compliment! Simple but very powerful!
2. Leave a little love note in your loved one's briefcase, purse or lunch.
3. Guys, put the toilet seat down.
4. Give your spouse a 15-minute scalp massage.
5. Offer to do a chore that he or she normally does.
6. Blow your loved one a kiss, or give him or her a wink, as you're walking out the door.
7. Say "I love you" when they LEAST expect it.
8. Request a special song for him or her on the radio.
9. Plan an evening out for just the two of you.
10. Change the toilet paper roll when it's empty.
11. If your Saturday nights have been involving sweat suits and pizza for too long, surprise him or her by taking the time to get dressed up.
12. Preserve some mystery and romance in your relationship by closing the bathroom door when appropriate.
13. Offer to warm up your partner's car when it's cold outside.
14. Treat your loved one to a professional massage.
15. Bring home some coffee and a fresh fruit plate (or whatever breakfast treats you enjoy) one morning while your partner is still sleeping.
16. Acknowledge the things your partner does for you.
17. Pick up your loved one's favorite snack food the next time you're at the grocery store.
18. Take the kids to a movie so your spouse can relax in the tub/go to a yoga class/watch a football game.
19. Create a new tradition together. This can be something as simple as taking a walk together to get coffee on Saturday mornings, ordering Thai food on Sunday nights, or taking the dog for a walk together after work.
20. Turn off the TV for a night and ask your partner about his or her day/dreams/concerns.
21. Write a list of what you love about your partner and tape it to the bathroom mirror before you leave for work.
22. If you know that something you do bothers your spouse, don't do it. For instance, if leaving your dirty clothes next to the hamper (instead of in it) annoys your mate, make an effort to put your clothes inside.
23. Stop at the video store on your way home one night and surprise your loved one with a movie that he or she has been wanting to see (even if you'd really rather not).
24. Clear the clutter out of your bedroom, garage, basement or kitchen counter -- without expecting anything in return.
25. Do something out of the ordinary. This can be something simple, like getting home early from work to have dinner together or getting up early with your mate (even when you don't have to), but it can a have big effect on your relationship.

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