Relationships are wonderful. You have someone to do everything with, even if it's nothing at all. You have someone who you look forward to seeing, who can bring a smile to your face in the blink of an eye. And, in most cases, you have someone who loves to shower you in gifts.
Recently I was discussing relationships with a friend, and he shared something that I found intriguing. He told me how during his latest relationship, he got to a point where he felt that he was continually showering his girlfriend in gifts with no appreciation whatsoever. It wasn't things he necessarily wanted in return, but he did say that some recognition would have been nice.
This made me reflect on many relationships that I have seen my friends go through. Many times, it was one person catering to the other's every want and need. When it was my friend was the one being catered to, it often stopped and they worried that there was a lack of attraction. On the other hand, when it was my friend who was doing the catering, they got tired of the expectation that was placed on them to pay for every dinner, constantly bring flowers, always have cute songs and anything else you can think of.
Relationships are always about a balance. There is a constant give and take, and sometimes the one giving just depends on the day. One thing that is for sure; it shouldn't be up to one person to only give.
Breaking the idea of one person having to always 'wear the pants' is so essential as it allows both partners to build each other up and support each other. Every person has days where they just need a little extra love, a little bit more appreciation for what they do so willingly. Ignoring this need will only cause strain on the relationship.
Showing your appreciation for your partner doesn't have to come in the form of gifts. There are so many other ways to show them that you're there for them and it is okay for them to rely on you for a little while.
Each couple has their own love language, and each person in a couple has their own way that they want to be shown appreciation. Maybe they want a quiet day to spend time together, or maybe they want a cute card with a message inside. Whatever the case may be, there are endless ways to show your appreciation for your significant other.
A relationship is about caring for each other and taking care of each other. I'm not saying that every kind word or gift has to be matched perfectly, but I am saying that it is so important to show the appreciation you have for your significant other even in the simplest of ways.
Anyone who is in a relationship knows how much they love and value their partner. This is your encouragement to show how much you enjoy their presence in your life, not with anything huge or over the top, but rather something they will cherish.
