10 Simple Phrases That Keep You in Love

When a relationship is new, both of you are seeing the world through rose-colored glasses. Everything is fresh and new. As you look at each other, you see someone who is exciting and perfect. Even the world around you seems brighter and happier than it did before you found each other. In that “new” stage of a relationship, it’s easy to say loving things to each other. Those sweet words come naturally when you are together, and then via text or phone at all hours of the day and night when you are apart. Over time, however, things start to change. Challenges occur, flaws emerge. The rose-colored glasses come off and reality sets in. This is when love begins to morph a bit.

In this more established stage of love (ideally, the longest part of your relationship), saying loving things toward each other takes a bit more effort. Love takes more effort, but practice makes perfect! As you weather storms together in life, you develop a deeper love and appreciation for each other than ever before. If you’ve been out of that “new” stage for a while and want to support the development of a deeper, more mature love, look no further. One of the best things you can do for your marriage or relationship is to practice saying these little phrases as often as possible.

You Look Great

As you both grow older, compliments can mean more than ever, since wrinkles and extra pounds tend to increase with each passing year. Look for the positive, and don't hold back. Research indicates that, even though giving compliments produces positive feelings, people often hold positive comments back because they underestimate the enormous value they give their recipients.1 If you say, “You look great!” you're actually saying, “I'm still physically attracted to you.” With each passing year, your spouse will know that you still enjoy their outer as well as their inner beauty.

Thank You

After a couple has been together for a while, it’s normal for them to take each other for granted. We come to expect the other person to fulfill their role without asking and without noticing when they’re done well. “Thank you” are the two simplest words to say, but also the most important. When you say this, what you are indeed saying is, “I appreciate everything you do for me.” Your partner will feel good that you noticed and took the time to say so.