When it comes to creating and maintaining healthy, strong, and lasting romantic relationships, showing your gratitude is essential. Gratitude, at it’s core, is expressing appreciation for the good things that come your way and giving thanks for the positive moments in life. While all relationships require work, effort, and compromise, a little bit of gratitude can go a long way in keeping the love alive. 

Having an attitude of gratitude shows your partner how much you value them and all the things they do for you.

Expressing gratitude lets your partner know that you not only recognize their efforts, but that you are deeply appreciative of them. Gratitude makes your partner feel seen, heard, and respected. It builds trust and intimacy, which are the foundations of any strong relationship. By making an effort to express gratitude regularly, you’re showing your partner that you are invested in the relationship. 

“When you and your partner practice gratitude and show appreciation for each other, it helps to build a positive mindset when it comes to the relationship”, says Amber Kelleher-Andrews, co-CEO of Kelleher International matchmaking service. “Instead of an attitude of entitlement and expecting your partner to do everything for you, expressing gratitude focuses on all the good things that are already there. This helps balance out any negative feelings or resentments that may be lingering in the relationship.” 

Gratitude helps to create a safe space for communication. When both partners are expressing appreciation for one another, it encourages a more open and honest dialogue.

This creates a stronger bond between you and your partner, creating a sense of security in the relationship. Furthermore, when there is an attitude of gratitude, it opens up the possibility of resolving conflicts in a more productive and respectful way. 

Lastly, gratitude also helps to foster an attitude of self-care and self-love. When you’re able to express gratitude for the things your partner does for you, it acts as a reminder of how much you matter and how much you are valued. This helps to create a sense of self-worth, which can make it easier to love and accept yourself. Expressing gratitude helps to make you more aware of the good things in your life, which can help to boost your overall well being. 

“While there are many things that go into a healthy and strong relationship”, says Amber, “coming from a place of humility and respect is essential. I think we all know how it works out when we always need to be right and don’t show appreciation for our partner. It just makes sense to get into the headset of gratitude from the beginning. We’re going to wind up there anyway if a lasting relationship is the goal.”

Not only does expressing gratitude make your partner feel seen, heard, and respected, but it also encourages positive communication and creates a safe space for working through your last spat.

Coming from a place of gratitude can help to build self-worth and a sense of self-love. So, the next time you’re feeling grateful for your partner and all the things they do for you, be sure to let them know. A little bit of gratitude can go a long way in keeping the love alive.