Tokens of Love: How to Show Affection and Appreciation 

Showing appreciation to the people we love is an art that evolves over time. Every year, we discover new ways to express our gratitude and affection. In 2025, let’s explore timeless and contemporary gestures that resonate deeply with the ones who matter most. Whether through words, gifts, acts of service, quality time, or physical touch, there are endless possibilities to make your loved ones feel truly cherished. Dive into these heartfelt ideas and find the perfect way to convey your emotions. 

Words of affirmation

Words of affirmation are kind and encouraging words that show someone you care about them and appreciate what they do. Saying “I love you” can make someone feel really special. Words of affirmation mean using words to show how much we appreciate and care about someone. This can be spoken or written down in notes, letters, or poems. Some ways to use words to express love are: 

• Writing notes, letters, or poems 

• Singing songs 

• Saying everyday phrases that show you care 

Think about someone you love or appreciate. Write down four things you admire about them. This could be a parent, sibling, friend, teacher, or anyone else who makes you happy. Try turning your list into a poem or a letter. It can be as short or as long as you want. 

Gifts

hile we usually receive gifts during holidays or on birthdays, there are times when people give presents simply to show appreciation. These gifts don’t have to be extravagant; the thought behind them is what truly matters. Consider these thoughtful options: 

• Flowers 

• A heartfelt card 

• A captivating book 

• Baking them a homemade sweet potato pie

• Anything that makes you think, “They would love this!” 

Often, the most cherished gifts are those we create ourselves, as they demonstrate the time and effort we’ve invested. What could you make? If you enjoy drawing, sit down with some paper and pencils to create a unique piece of art. For those who love crafts, consider making an origami crane with beautiful paper. Reflect on what you enjoy doing or making, even if you’re not an expert. The process of practicing your craft while showing someone you care can be incredibly meaningful. 

Acts of service

An act of service is a kind deed performed to help or benefit someone else. When someone assists you with your homework or other projects, that’s a form of an act of service. Even if it’s as simple as asking them to retrieve something from a high shelf, they’re doing it to assist you. Often, acts of service can involve completing tasks so that the people you care about don’t have to. These tasks might include: 

• Doing your chores 

• Cleaning up after yourself 

• Taking care of the family pet 

Sometimes, our attempts to help can turn out to be more complicated than anticipated. If you have an idea for how you could help someone, make sure to ask first to ensure they’re comfortable with it. The easiest way to show appreciation through acts of service is either by waiting for someone to ask for your help or by doing something you already know they need. 

Quality time

Quality time is the act of spending meaningful moments with someone, focusing on being fully present together. It doesn’t always mean talking; sometimes just being around the people we love and who love us back is enough. It shows that, out of all the things they could be doing, they choose to be with us. This can include: 

• Reading a book together 

• Listening to music 

• Going for a walk 

• Spending screen-free time together

Sometimes people are really busy, and even though they want to spend time with someone, they can’t. But that makes the time they do get with that person even more precious. When you do almost any of the activities mentioned in this blog, you can ask a friend or a family member to join you. 

Physical touch

Physical touch can be a meaningful way for some people to express affection, but it varies greatly from person to person. For those who find it challenging to express themselves with words, physical touch can be an easier alternative. This can include: 

• Hugs 

• Kisses on the cheek 

• High fives 

It’s always important to ask for consent before showing appreciation and love through physical touch. While it can be a beautiful way to show affection, you don’t have to hug someone if you don’t want to, and you shouldn’t hug them if they don’t want you to. Some people don’t like hugs at all, and some people only enjoy hugs at certain times. 

In summary, showing appreciation and affection can come in many forms, whether it’s through thoughtful gifts, acts of service, spending quality time together, or expressing physical touch. Remember, often the best way to show your appreciation for the people in your life is by genuinely listening to them. Pay attention to the ways they show affection, as it’s usually how they’d like to receive it. Your attentiveness and care will always make a difference. 

We’d love to hear from you! Share the unique ways you show your loved ones affection by joining the conversation on our social media platforms.