How to Say I Love You at Christmas

Thoughtful, Effective Ways to Show You Care During the Holidays

Nov 7, 2007

Make this a Christmas to remember by saying I love you in new, refreshing ways. These active, practical tips about love will go a long way!

Knowing how to say “I love you” at Christmas can make your holidays happier and more fun. This is It's a Wonderful Life in action!

How say “I love you” with thoughtful Christmas gifts:

Start early. One of the least loving, most thoughtless things you can do is shop at the last minute. You end up buying overpriced, useless, or tacky gifts – and that’s definitely not an effective way to say “I love you” at Christmas. The earlier you think about gifts, the better.

Listen for hints and suggestions throughout the year. For example, if she mentions that stress is causing muscle pain, give a gift certificate for a massage therapist or day spa. If he hates housework, give him a six-month or one-year supply of housecleaning services. If she loves skiing, organize a ski weekend to break up the February blahs.

Ask friends and family for suggestions. They may notice things you don’t about your lover, and offer the perfect way to say I love you at Christmas. Consider talking to colleagues, neighbors or even acquaintances for creative ideas. Don’t forget to swear them to secrecy.

Be creative. Give an annual pass to the zoo, aquarium, science world, sports team or theme park. Spring for a weekend retreat or two nights at a bed and breakfast; look into dog or cat shows or upcoming concerts. Find things you can do together (a perfect way to say “I love you”).

How to say “I love you” in practical Christmas ways:

Saying “I love you” at Christmas isn’t just about gifts – it’s about action. Here are some practical ways to show your love during the holiday season.

Host the party. If you and your spouse are having the family over for dinner, do a role reversal. If your partner usually plans the party, offer to take it on instead – or play a more active role. If you’re hesitant about cooking or planning a meal, do a little Google or family research.

Do the dirty work. One of the best ways to say “I love you” at Christmas is to clean the house or take on some other responsibility without being asked. Take care of the cat’s litterbox or dog’s bath time. Offer to bake the cookies or cook the turkey. If you have a live tree, clean up the needles and keep it watered. Sometimes the little things are the best way to say “I love you” at Christmas.

Express your love and appreciation often. Don’t leave it until Christmas to say “I love you.” Make it a habit to share your warm and fuzzy feelings every day.

The copyright of the article How to Say I Love You at Christmas in Psychology is owned by Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen. Permission to republish How to Say I Love You at Christmas in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.