3 Tiny Everyday Proofs of Love

Having recently celebrated my birthday here in Dubai, I’ve been feeling so completely overwhelmed with love. It’s nearly been a year since I made the move, and I just wanted to say: if you’ve recently relocated somewhere new, I see you. Starting again in a new city takes a lot out of you, and it really makes you appreciate the people who hold you up along the way.

My husband surprised me for my birthday with something I’d been talking about ages ago, which was so thoughtful and made me feel so special. It also got me thinking about all the different ways we show love, especially in the day-to-day. Alongside those lovely big moments, there are all those small, quiet habits. The tiny things that show someone: I notice you, and I’m paying attention.

If you want to try something simple this week to make someone in your life feel valued, here is a challenge for you.

1. Pick your person

This is obvious for a partner, but it works just as well for a parent, a close friend, or a work colleague. Just pick one person for the week.

2. Ask yourself first

Before you say anything to them, sit down and ask yourself: Do I actually know three small things that make this person feel looked after?

Write them down, but be honest with yourself. Are these things they’ve told you they appreciate, or are you just guessing based on what you think they want?

3. If in doubt, ask them

If you’re not sure, or if you want to test your list, just ask them directly:

"What are three tiny, everyday things I could do that would make you feel cared for?"

Make sure they know you don't mean grand, over-the-top things. You want the micro-stuff. The daily things. Most people have never been asked this, so don't be surprised if they have to pause and think about it for a minute.

4. Just do them

Once you have your three things, do them every single day for a week. All three, no excuses, no matter how small they seem.

Things like:

• Making them a cuppa and setting it down without being asked.

• Sending a quick text before a meeting you know they're dreading.

• Putting your phone face-down and giving them five minutes of proper, undivided attention.

• A decent, lingering hug before heading out the door.

• Leaving a fresh glass of water on their bedside table.

None of this needs to be ott to make a difference. It’s simply about showing up for each other in the quiet, everyday ways that mean the most.