Acts of service

Approaching this type of love language takes thought and time.

Trying to do the “things” that will make your significant other happy takes commitment. Your significant other probably has asked/nagged you about certain things they wanted done. I have provided a list of common acts of service that some may not even realize are, in fact, acts of service:

• Chores around the house;
• Lawn work;
• Visit certain family members;
• Hang out with certain friends;
• Volunteer time for a charity.

“Requests give directions to love, but demands stop the flow of love,” author Gary Chapman said.

So if your primary love language is acts of service, you might want to try to request these acts instead of demand them. Demanding service will offend your significant other and make the act very undesirable.

Chapman describes pleasant ways to request acts of service so that your significant other is eager to do them. Perhaps, write a sweet note, make a honey do list, or ask in a charming manner. The healthy way in which you approach the need for this love language affects the persons’ desire to do it.

If your primary love language is not acts of service, then honoring this expression can be easy with a little practice. First, listen to your partner’s requests. Second, try to listen to what your partner complains about doing then you do it instead. Third, think about common chores that need to be done and do them before even asked. Also, for you help, I provided a list of acts of service:

• Mow the lawn;
• Do the dishes;
• Hire someone to shovel the snow;
• Pick up the dry cleaning;
• Go grocery shopping
• Go to their church;
• Find local charity events for their favorite cause;
• Take the dogs for a walk;
• Babysit the kids;
• Throw a surprise party.

“Love is the answer, and you know that for sure; Love is a flower, you've got to let it grow,” John Lennon said.