The loving check-in
Feeling loved — for who you are, exactly as you are — is one of the greatest experiences available to us. This precious experience is far too rare -- but it doesn't need to be! We can learn to love better, and I want to share one of my favorite science-backed tools to help.
Try This As you can see from the community responses below, what makes people feel loved is usually the little things. This is backed up by research. One 2020 study found that these small, everyday experiences of love are connected to higher well-being — the more moments of love received, the happier they were.
This week, sit down with someone who matters to you and as, "What do you need right now?"
Listen to what they say. Then, use your creativity, care, and compassion to fulfill that need.
For example:
“I need a break.” — Give them the night off from parenting, surprise them with a trip to your favorite restaurant, or take on one of their responsibilities.
“I need appreciation.” — Find five ways to compliment them and thank them over the next few days.
“I need to connect.” — Ask them how they are feeling, go for a walk and talk, or do something new and fun together.
Love is deliberate and intentional. With these little check-ins, bit by bit, you can transform your relationships and your well-being, at the same time.
