Fun fact, everyone is different. Everyone thinks different and everyone loves differently. The way someone shows their love or how they want to be loved can play a big part in a relationship. Not only are they important in your romantic life, but they are important in your friendships.

Some friends love quality time, some friends love words of affirmation, and some are a mix of everything.

Below are the 5 different love languages and how to show them in friendships:

1. ACTS OF SERVICE.
In life, action speaks louder than words. Telling someone that you support them is actually different when you actually show up. Following through with plans and being there when they need you is a great a showcase of acts of service.

Samples of Acts of Service:

• If your friend is going through a stressful time (a breakup) bring them ice cream or order food.

• When they host a party at their house helping them with cleaning up around the house and/or doing dishes.

If you are unsure about what you should do to help them or be there for them, ask!

2. QUALITY TIME
Spending time with someone can make their whole day or week. Simple things such as going out to eat with your friend, meeting up to go to Target, or just going on a trip are ways to connect with your friend. Honestly, it doesn’t matter what you do with your friend, they just want you to be enjoy the moment. One thing that can really help is putting your phone away and living in the moment if possible.

Simply giving your friend a spot on your schedule will make them happy!

3. RECEIVING GIFTS
Gifts can get expensive however, it’s not all about what money can buy. Listening to conversations with your friends, you can easily tell what they need or want. Want to make their day, try the approach of, “I saw this at the store and thought about you”. It can be a piece of candy or book that you were both talking about. It not only shows that you can but it also shows that you understand them.

4. WORDS OF AFFIRMATION
Words mean so much to people and they hit the spot differently to everyone. You don’t have to be sappy when you want to show your friends some love however, you do want to show that you do care about them. A text message, card, or even phone call can go along way.

Samples of Words of Affirmation:

• “Hey, just thinking about you!”

• “I hope you’re having a great day at work.”

• “I am so proud of you.”

• “I am thankful for our friendship.”

Some people need reassurance to make sure that you are still thinking and cherishing the friendship. This can go a long way especially when you never know if mental health can be an issue!

5. PHYSICAL TOUCH
There are plenty non-romantic forms of touch that may surprise you. From a hug or just touching their shoulder when they touch, they all go along way. Make sure to ask your friend or simply read how they react when you do certain things. Funny story, my best friends and I never used to hug. However, since my move, we make sure we do hug. People will most likely let you know if they are a hugger or not. Respect those boundaries that are set in regards to touch!

How do you learn your friends love language? COMMUNICATION. Talking about what makes you happy or what makes you tick can be a great way to learn their love language. Remember that you don’t have to speak the same love language however, you need to make space for you and them to be heard and understood. Don’t avoid these conversations because they can end up causing friction in your friendships.

Stay safe, be healthy, and mindful of yourself.