The importance of expressing gratitude in a relationship

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Giving thanks is a sign of good health in the couple. Proof that both recognize the other’s interest in their well-being.

No matter how much a couple is in love, the feeling begins to fade if they do not take care of themselves.. Expressing gratitude in an open and continuous way is one of the ways to prevent love from fading away, as it so often happens.

One of the big problems of many couples is that once a certain stability is acquired, they also the value of commitment is taken for granted. In other words, they forget that the other gives of themselves, without this being an obligation in the strict sense of the term. For the same reason, it is not thought that it is important to express gratitude.

Many reach the point of believing that the other simply “should” be there., be a good partner and provide satisfaction just from the fact that the relationship has been formalized. However, feelings don’t work that way. They must be nourished. Expressing gratitude, as well as affection and respect, is essential for love to remain alive.

“When you are grateful, fear disappears and abundance appears”.

-Tony Robbins-

Express gratitude in your relationship

That expressing gratitude in a relationship is very important is not just a conclusion that arises from an unsuspecting observation. A study published in Personal Relationships proved that this is a fundamental aspect.

The research, led by Allen Barton, consulted 468 couples who were married. A central conclusion of the study was that expressing gratitude was the most important predictor of stability and well-being in the couple. Recurring gratitude was shown to be a factor that reduced the impact of conflicts and tensions.

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It was proven that expressing gratitude was an element that buffered other not so positive aspects of the relationship and gave greater strength to the bond. Couples in which gestures of gratitude are frequent are less likely to separate.

Why is saying “thank you” so important?

Gratitude can’t only be expressed in words; Sometimes one look is enough. On the other hand, It does not have much value when said mechanically or as a courtesy formula. In a deep sense, it emerges spontaneously when you appreciate and value what the other gives of themselves.

A person who perceives a show of gratitude feels recognized and valued. You also feel that what you contribute has a positive impact on the other and this is very rewarding, especially in a relationship. It helps those who give something also feel validated and reaffirmed.

However, the person who is thanked is not the only one who benefits from this gesture. Whoever gives thanks must also become aware of what the other is contributing. and with this you can also better value the positive things you are receiving from someone else. This ends up being reflected in your own feeling of satisfaction with the relationship and with life itself.

How to express gratitude as a couple

Saying “thank you” is important, whether out of courtesy, formalism or habit. However, It sounds much nicer and has much more impact when it is said from the heart.. Gratitude as a couple is not expressed with infinite repetition of the word. That is why it is better to save it and say it periodically, when you feel the need to do so.

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It is also very important to understand the real reasons that drive expressing gratitude. If one person gives another a gift, What is truly important: the gift or the act itself? Even if the gift is expensive, behind it there is an intention to please and make the other person happy. That is what should be appreciated, finally.

Other ways to express gratitude as a couple are the following:

Write it down or have a detail. A flower, some chocolates, a book with a dedication… all those details that sometimes seem “cheesy” to some, are a way to say “thank you” to the other for what they give of themselves in the relationship.Prepare a special meal. It is a “classic” detail that comforts everyone. It is always worth accompanying this with a loud mention of what is valued and appreciated in the other.Listen carefully and with an understanding attitude. It is a gesture of gratitude, which at the same time generates correspondence. All human beings value feeling heard.

Expressing gratitude as a couple is always an excellent “investment.” Strengthens the bond, feeds trust and intimacy, but, above all, helps keep love alive. It is not difficult to do and whoever practices it benefits.