10 Ways to Bring Your Partner Emotionally Close to You (Part1)

Relationships are not a walk in the park; they require serious commitment from both parties. No relationship is a bed of roses. Forget what is presented on social media, as it often doesn't reflect reality. Most of us make the mistake of comparing our relationships to others, judging ours based on what someone else is showing about their spouse or relationship. What we forget is that every relationship is unique, just like the individuals involved and their needs.

This post was inspired by recent complaints from friends and acquaintances: "My partner's so difficult to deal with," "My spouse doesn't talk about anything," My partner's emotionally detached," so many complains. Most times the problem is not with the person you're with but lies in you not understanding their emotional needs. However, there's no need to worry. There are several ways to make your partner feel more emotionally connected to you. That being said, let's dive into ten ways to bring your partner emotionally close to you.

Effective Communication: I have always been of the opinion that communication is the most important key in any relationship. Communication is more than just talking or listening, it builds understanding, trust, and connection, it is one essential way to draw your partner closer to you on an emotional level. It can be achieved by having an honest and open conversation. I've heard people especially women complain about their spouses not being a talker, just bottling in, but sometimes the reason your partner is not sharing could be your approach. If you have a partner who is not a talker, firstly, encourage them to voice their ideas, emotions, and worries without worrying about being judged or mocked. When you're having a conversation with such a person, practice active listening really listen to what they are saying and try to understand where they are coming from by paying close attention to what they say.

Secondly, avoid interrupting, and focus on what they are saying without thinking about what you'll say next. Try to maintain eye contact as much as possible. It s okay to break it every once in a while, but try to make it a habit. Making eye contact will help you connect on a deeper level and make your partner feel heard and understood.  Acknowledge their feelings and show compassion. Refusing to acknowledge your partner's emotions should be avoided as this could spoil the connection.

Pay attention to your partner's love language:  Every person has a primary love language, or a way they prefer to receive love and affection. There are five love languages: words of affirmation, quality time, physical touch, acts of service, and receiving gifts. Identifying your partner's major love language from the above list will help not only understand them but also bring you closer. The easiest way to achieve this is to pay attention to how they express and receive love from you or you can have an honest conversation about their likes and what makes them feel loved. Once you are aware of your partner's preferred ways of receiving love, use words and actions to show how much you care and appreciate them. Below are easy ways to express love using each language. 

Words of Affimation: On a regular basis, express gratitude, admiration, and encouragement verbally. Congratulate them on accomplishments, efforts, and strengths.

Quality Time: Dedicate undivided attention to spending meaningful time together. Engage in activities you both enjoy and prioritize quality conversations to deepen your connection.

Physical Touch: Show affection through hugs, kisses, cuddles, and other physical gestures of love. Physical closeness helps strengthen emotional bonds.

Acts of Service: Do not be a receiver at all time, at least when possible offer to help. Make your partner's life more comfortable and easier as a way to show your affection.

Receiving Gifts: Everyone likes a little something wrapped with  bowtie. Gifting should not just be one sided. Give thoughtful presents that are meaningful and reflects your partner's interests. It's not about the size of the gift but the thoughtfulness behind the gesture.

The point is, by being aware of and responsive to your partner's favorite language, is one fast way of bringing you both close emotionally. 

Try New Things Together: One great way to bond and create shared memories is trying new things together.  It doesn't have to be anything fancy or expensive – it can be, doing something together, visiting a new place, or eating something new together all these helps personal growth and improves your relationship. The key is to do something that's outside of your usual routine.

Another way of trying new things is stepping beyond your comfort zone, and this calls for vulnerability, talking about experiences. You can develop emotional connection  by being more empathetic and aware of your partner's weaknesses, anxieties, and strengths. The good thing about sharing vulnerabilities is it helps in building trust, overcoming obstacles and handling difficult situations. Trying new things keeps the spark alive and prevents boredom by bringing energy and newness into your relationship. Together, the excitement of stepping into the unknown can rekindle passion and strengthen your emotional bond.

Quality Time Together: This is important for any relationship.  The fact of the matter is, intimacy and emotional ties are strengthened when people spend quality time together. This means making time for each other without any distractions. Fix regular dates or fun activities for the two of you, like exploring a new restaurant, playing a game, watching a movie, reading a book or just relaxing on the couch and talking about nothing. Make the most of this opportunity to keep the embers burning. 

Remember spending quality time with each other requires your whole, undivided focus. Prioritizing time spent together and having genuine, meaningful talks and activities together shows you value your partner's company, which helps emotional intimacy. When together put phones or other electronics away and give each other your whole attention. 

Another way to this is talking about your ideas, emotions, and experiences with one another, this will help you bond on a deeper level. In these times of vulnerability and open communication, you build trust, intimacy and understanding in your relationship. The whole point of spending quality time with each other is that it leaves you with memories that you will always treasure. Try to have at least one night a week that's dedicated to spending time together, doing something you both enjoy.

Show Appreciation: Everyone likes to feel appreciated, and it's important to show your partner  how much you value them, maintaining emotional intimacy requires the expression of gratitude and love. You can express your gratitude to your partner in different ways. One way is praising your partner's qualities. Say things like "I really appreciate how patient you are with our kids or me" or "I admire how creative and resourceful you are, these are some examples of what you could say. Another way of showing gratitude is as simple as saying "thank you” for making you laugh or giving a hug when they do something nice for you like helping with chores or even offering  suggestion for a work task.

 Tell your partner how much you appreciate and are grateful on a frequent basis. You can also go above and beyond by sending a message or leaving a voicenote, getting a small gift, or doing something special. Also, never underrate the importance of physical touch. Give a hug, a peck, a kiss, and e frequent cuddles to strengthen your relationship this will give them a sense of love and appreciation.