When you’re in a relationship with someone, you might think you have to go to extreme lengths to make sure they’re content and fulfilled. However, the reality is a lot simpler than that. If you want to make someone happy, you only need to do these things.
1. Show Genuine Interest in Their Life.
Taking a genuine interest in someone’s life goes beyond asking about their day. You should be fully present in conversations, get eep with them, and express curiosity about their interests, goals, and experiences. By doing this, you’re not only showing that you value what they have to say but also that you care about their well-being and happiness.
2. Be Supportive.
Being supportive is about more than just being physically present, according to Psychology Today. It’s about offering emotional support, understanding, and reassurance whenever they need it. Whether they’re facing a tough challenge, dealing with a personal crisis, or simply need someone to vent to, your unwavering support can provide them with comfort and strength.
3. Show Appreciation.
Showing appreciation extends beyond simply saying ‘thank you’. It’s about recognizing the effort they put into the small things they do for you and expressing your gratitude. Whether it’s making a meal, helping you with a task, or giving you a thoughtful gift, acknowledging these gestures can make them feel appreciated and valued.
4. Be Honest and Open.
Honesty and openness form the backbone of any strong relationship. Sharing your thoughts, feelings, and concerns honestly can help to build a foundation of trust. But it’s equally important to create a safe space for them to express themselves openly too. This mutual openness can foster deeper understanding and stronger communication between you both.
5. Respect Their Space.
Respecting someone’s personal space is vital. Everyone needs time to unwind, recharge, and focus on their personal needs and interests. Understand that this need for space is not a reflection of their feelings towards you, but rather a healthy practice that allows them to maintain their individuality and personal well-being.
6. Surprise Them.
Surprises can be a wonderful way to break from routine and bring joy to their day. It could be as simple as preparing their favorite meal without a special occasion or planning a surprise outing to a place they love. The key here is to show that you know them well and have put thought into creating a happy moment for them.
7. Apologize When Necessary.
When you’ve made a mistake, a sincere apology shows that you recognize what you did wrong and are willing to make things right. This is a powerful way to show them that you value your relationship more than your ego. Remember, a genuine apology is about acknowledging how your actions have affected them, not just expressing your regret.
8. Be Patient.
Patience is a key aspect of maintaining happiness in a relationship. Everyone has their own pace in life, their own way of processing emotions, and their own timeline for personal growth. Being patient with them, and allowing them the space to move at their own pace, shows your respect for their individuality.
9. Encourage Their Goals and Dreams.
Being their cheerleader in life can be a powerful motivator. Support them in their goals and dreams, whether it’s a career aspiration, a personal goal, or even a small hobby they’re passionate about. Your encouragement can provide the confidence boost they need to pursue their dreams.
10, Keep Your Promises.
Keeping your promises is a practical way to build trust and show your reliability. If you’ve committed to doing something, ensure you follow through. This not only shows that you’re a person of your word, but also that they can depend on you. Being dependable in small things paves the way for trust in bigger matters.
11. Cultivate Open Dialogue.
Encourage open and honest communication about your and their feelings, thoughts, and experiences. It’s not always easy to talk about what’s going on inside, but creating a safe environment where they feel comfortable expressing themselves can lead to a deeper, more fulfilling relationship.
12. Show Kindness in Actions.
Kindness should be at the heart of your interactions. Small acts of kindness, like doing something they hate or don’t have time for, helping them without being asked, or simply being courteous can make a massive impact on their overall happiness.
13. Celebrate Their Success.
Take joy in their achievements. Celebrating their successes, no matter how big or small, can show your support and make them feel loved and appreciated. It also shows that you’re proud of them and that you’re happy for their triumphs.
14. Understand and Meet Their Love Language.
People have different ways they prefer to give and receive love, also known as love languages, according to Simply Psychology. These can be words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time, or physical touch. Understanding their love language and making an effort to meet it can make them feel truly loved and valued.