The 5 Love Languages

What if you could say or do just the right thing guaranteed to make that special someone feel loved? The
secret is learning the right love language! Millions of couples have learned the simple way to express their
feelings and bring joy back into marriage: The 5 Love Languages, Dr. Gary Chapman’s New York Times
bestseller.

1: Words of Affirmation
Actions don’t always speak louder than words. If this is your love language, unsolicited
compliments mean the world to you. Hearing the words, “I love you,” are important—hearing
the reasons behind that love sends your spirits skyward. Insults can leave you shattered and are
not easily forgotten.

2: Quality Time
For those whose love language is spoken with Quality Time, nothing says, “I love you,” like full,
undivided attention. Being there for this type of person is critical, but really being there—with
the TV off, fork and knife down, and all chores and tasks on standby—makes your significant
other feels truly special and loved. Distractions, postponed dates, or the failure to listen can be
especially hurtful.

3: Receiving Gifts
Don’t mistake this love language for materialism; the receiver of gifts thrives on the love,
thoughtfulness, and effort behind the gift. If you speak this language, the perfect gift or gesture
shows that you are known, you are cared for, and you are prized above whatever was sacrificed
to bring the gift to you. A missed birthday, anniversary, or a hasty, thoughtless gift would be
disastrous—so would the absence of everyday gestures.

4: Acts of Service
Can vacuuming the floors really be an expression of love? Absolutely! Anything you do to ease
the burden of responsibilities weighing on an “Acts of Service” person will speak volumes. The
words he or she most wants to hear: “Let me do that for you.” Laziness, broken commitments,
and making more work for them tell speakers of this language their feelings don’t matter.

5: Physical Touch
This language isn’t all about the bedroom. A person whose primary language is Physical Touch is,
not surprisingly, very touchy. Hugs, pats on the back, holding hands, and thoughtful touches on
the arm, shoulder, or face can all be ways to show excitement, concern, care, and love.
Physical presence and accessibility are crucial, while neglect or abuse can be unforgivable and
destructive.