“I love you” in different words: creative ways to express care from a distance

You may feel like you’re doing a good job of telling your partner you love them while you’re apart. Maybe you consistently text them good morning or good night with an *I love you* included. But love feels more authentic when it’s backed by action, and that’s the part that’s tricky when you/your partner are on tour…. words start to feel vapid and hold less meaning when tour is stretchinggggg on.

Chin up, though… our relationships are at their best when we find creative ways to be present, and presence isn’t defined by physical proximity. It’s about approaching your partner with consistency and conscientiousness. It’s showing up in small, tangible ways that say you’re in my thoughts and my heart and I care. Try to move away from seeing expressions of love as being limited to the obvious words. Most of us are simply looking for confirmation that our partner is invested in our well-being from a distance. Verbal reminders of that can include stuff we often overlook.

Here are some thoughtful ways to express care from a distance:

• I can tell it was a tough day, wanna talk about it? (I love you.)

• Let’s make a plan together to figure it out when I get home. (I love you.)

• I was telling everyone at dinner about you. (I love you.)

• Call me after and tell me all about it. (I love you.)

• I can hear in your voice that it was a special show… I’m so happy for you. (I love you.)

• I booked a therapy session. (I love you.)

• I listened to that podcast you wanted me to check out. (I love you.)

• I ordered lunch for you… it’s on the way. (I love you.)

• Ugh that sucks. I’m sorry they responded that way. (I love you.)