When we have been in a relationship for a long period of time, often we lose sight of the importance of showing gratitude to our partners. With busy lives full of long lists of priorities it is easy to become complacent by no fault of our own but it’s important to recognize and make change so we never take our relationship for granted. Let’s take a closer look at the top 5 things you can do to show consistent gratitude to the ones we love most.

1. Don’t Allow Entitlement To Set In

We have a tendency to take our partner’s kindness for granted, believing that it is “their job” to do nice things for us. However, this mentality allows complacency to settle in and complacency is the enemy of progression. If your partner helps you with a task or does something nice for you, this is not your birthright, it is something to be cherished and appreciated. Don’t ever take these niceties for granted. Make sure you provide positive reinforcement to ensure these acts continue and also, don’t forget the importance of reciprocation!

2. Provide Reasons For Your Gratefulness

Showing gratitude is a great start but taking the time to specify why you are so thankful goes a long way towards displaying your true gratitude and lets them know that their kindness is not being lost on you. For example, if your partner takes on some extra chores so that you can relax, let them know exactly why this was helpful to you, as opposed to offering a generic “thank you”.

3. Put The Process Over The Result

Your partner is always going to mean well and try hard, but this does not mean that the results will match their efforts. Appreciating them even when they mess up and do not meet your expectations is important. Knowing that they have your support, even when things do not pan out as planned is crucial to the long-term health of the relationship.

4. Leave Thank You Notes

This seemingly tiny gesture can have a dramatic effect on the psyche of your partner and lets them know that they are always in your thoughts. Sliding a heartfelt note into your partner’s lunch for them to read at work or sending them a sweet text message on the way to work is a great way to display your gratitude and let them know that you are thinking of them.

5. Praise Them Publicly

We all enjoy being praised in a public setting and our relationships are certainly no different. If you are the type of person to belittle your partner in front of friends and family, this mentality only serves to erode the core foundation of your connection. By lavishing them with praise no matter where you are or who you are with, this shows them that you are truly committed to their happiness.