I used to think that everyone expresses love in the same way. That if I showed affection in a certain way, the other person would naturally feel it just as intensely. But there were times when my efforts weren’t understood as I intended. Or when someone was showing me love, and I didn’t even realise it—because they expressed it in a way that didn’t naturally register with me.
Then I came across The Five Love Languages, and suddenly, everything started to make sense.
I realised that the way I give love doesn’t always match the way someone else receives it. And, more importantly, that love doesn’t have to be loud or grand to be deeply meaningful. Sometimes, the smallest thing—when it’s the right thing—can completely transform someone’s day.
What if more than one love language resonates with you?
For a long time, I tried to pinpoint which love language was mine. But the truth is, I connect with almost all of them. I love those moments when someone is fully present with me, when I feel like their attention is completely on our time together. I enjoy doing small things for others just to brighten their day. Words of affirmation can lift me up. And yes, I love receiving gifts—not because of their value, but because they are a tangible reminder of a moment, a thought, a connection.
Maybe that’s why I find it so fascinating how differently we all perceive love. How something that means everything to one person might feel insignificant to another.
Giving love the way we want to receive it—but realising the other person might need it differently
This realisation has changed my relationships. Because suddenly, love isn’t just about giving, but giving in a way that truly connects.
Words of affirmation – Some people need to hear that they are valued. It doesn’t have to be grand declarations. A few heartfelt words scribbled on the back of an old receipt can mean the world.
Quality time – Some people simply want your undivided attention. A moment with no phone, no distractions. A slow walk with nowhere to rush.
Gifts – For some, a small, thoughtfully chosen gift is the greatest expression of love. It doesn’t have to be expensive. It just needs to say, I saw this and thought of you.
Acts of service – Some feel most loved when someone takes something off their plate. Making them coffee just the way they like it, fixing something they haven’t had time to deal with, or simply doing a small favour without being asked.
Physical touch – And then there are those for whom love is a hug that lingers, a reassuring hand on the shoulder, or a touch that says more than words ever could.
Love isn’t just about Valentine’s Day
Understanding that we all have different love languages hasn’t just helped in romantic relationships—it has changed the way I see love in friendships, in family, in everyday moments. Suddenly, I started noticing the little things I had overlooked before.
I realised that my mum has been telling me I love you my entire life, even if not in words. She says it through acts of care, through doing things for me, through her presence. And one of my closest friends expresses love by sending me encouraging messages or reminding me of things she admires about me.
And gifts? They still matter to me. Not because I need them, but because when someone gives me something they picked out with me in mind, I feel seen. That’s exactly how I think about jewellery. It’s not just an ornament—it’s a small gesture that carries meaning, a memory, a story.
Valentine’s Day is simply a reminder to reflect on these things. To acknowledge that what feels meaningful to one person might not be the same for another. And maybe, instead of searching for the “perfect” gift this year, the best thing you can do is find out what truly resonates with the people you love.
And if a gift is something they cherish—something they can keep close, something that reminds them of you every time they see it—then perhaps the most meaningful thing you can give them is a piece of jewellery with a memory attached to it.
Do you know your love language? And do you know how the people closest to you experience love?
