It’s all about the little gestures, when it comes down to it. A guy can shout from the rooftops that he loves you, but when it really comes down to it, how does he show you? There are a million little signs that are far more meaningful than flowers and expensive presents… although those never hurt. If he really, truly cares about you, he’ll do these things:
- Remember important dates. This goes beyond birthdays and anniversaries, which he should obviously know — and if he doesn’t, you have other problems. A man who makes an effort remembers the birthdays of your family and friends as well. He knows the day you’re finally graduating from night school, the anniversary of the day you first met, and the date that your beloved grandmother passed away. He’s sentimental because you’re important to him.
- Remember little details. He can tell you what you were wearing on your first date with him. He knows what foods you hate and love, your pet peeves, and how you like the bed made. He might even correct you on certain small facts here and there — that’s how well he listens to what you say. This is a special quality in a man and one not to be disregarded.
- Get you really thoughtful gifts. This doesn’t mean expensive — in fact, it might be a present that doesn’t cost a thing. Maybe he saved ticket stubs from all your great date nights and made them into a collage. Maybe he remembered that you said you needed something very specific months ago and then never got around to buying it. Maybe he knows you aren’t good at treating yourself, so he does it for you.
- Pay attention to your friends. A good man gets along with your girls – and your guys. Never trust a man who doesn’t like your friends, or vice versa. Those are your people. They know you. The man who you deserve not only gets along with your gang but makes friends with them as well. You never have to worry about leaving him alone in the room. He’ll be just fine.
- Pay attention to your family. Some guys want to stay as far away from their potential in-laws as possible. If he really cares, he’ll take an active interest in the well-being and lives of those people close to you. After all, they may be his family too someday. He gets along with all of them because he has a vested interest in making sure that he fits into your life perfectly.
- Make sure you’re always comfortable. Whether this means physically, emotionally, or mentally, he’s got you covered. Your happiness makes him happy. He wants nothing but the best for the woman he loves, so he takes care of you. It’s not because he thinks you’re weak — he’s well aware you can do it yourself. He wants to make the extra effort.
- Notice when something is off. You don’t have to tell him if you’re having a funky day or simply not feeling like yourself. He’s so attuned to your moods and state of being that he already knows. He won’t get frustrated with you or confused by your behavior. He understands, and if you need space he’ll give it to you. If you need comforting, he can provide that as well.
- Take care of you without you asking. You don’t like asking for help. Who does? It’s okay, because you don’t have to give instructions to the man who cares about you. He’ll be there as your steadfast support no matter what, no questions or complaints. If you’re sick, he’ll be the one running out in the middle of the night to get you what you need. If you’re sad, he’s there to hold you for as long as you need.
- Anticipate your needs. He notices if you’re running low on something essential and brings it over on his next visit. If you’re overworked and exhausted, he’ll be at your door at the end of a long day with take-out and a bottle of wine. He’s waiting for you at the finish line of your marathon with hydration, snacks and comfy clothes to slip on. This man is a gem, and he loves you more than anything. He’s everything you never knew existed.
- Cheer you up when you’re down. He never gets upset that you aren’t feeling chipper or complains that you aren’t paying enough attention to him. He knows not everything is about him. Instead, he knows exactly how to take your mind off your troubles. Before you even realize it, you’re feeling loads better! It’s all due to your wonderful man.
- Creates a natural habit of physical contact. It isn’t weird or clingy or forced. He’s just always touching you somehow. He holds your hand on leisurely walks, assists you up the stairs with a gentle touch at the elbow, and brushes your hair out of your face when you’re telling him a story. He thinks you’re the most amazing creature in the world. Why wouldn’t he want to touch you all the time? Life is too short to be weird about physical affection.
- Tell you when you have food in your teeth. Ah, that’s real love! He lets you know when your makeup is smeared or your hair is tangled because he notices the little things. He understands that it’s better to let you know than let you walk around looking a fool. You’ll only be mad at him later. While most guys would protest and say they didn’t notice, your man has your back.
- Take an interest in your interests. Someone who truly loves you wants to understand what makes you tick. He’s fascinated with all the little bits and pieces that make up the bigger picture of who you are. He never makes fun of your hobbies or indulgences, no matter how different from his own. He’ll try anything if it makes you happy.
- Cheer your successes as if they are his own. The two of you are a team. Of course he’s proud of you and wants you to do well in life. Your success is his success because he knows that no man has a happy life if his partner is dissatisfied. He actually gets more excited about your achievements than his! He wants nothing but the best for you and tries to give you that.
- Act as your biggest supporter and fan. He knows you aren’t perfect, but he thinks you’re absolutely perfect for him. He knows that you can do anything you want and he tells you that every time you have little episodes of fear or doubt. The man who truly cares will be there at the front cheering you on when you overcome obstacles and triumph in life. He will pick you up and help you to the finish line when you’re struggling. He is, quite simply, the best.
