Not everyone’s comfortable snogging in the streets or holding hands at every turn — I get it because I’m one of them myself!
However, that doesn’t mean you don’t still need to make sure your partner feels loved and cared for. If you’re not big on PDA but still want to show your partner you love them, there are plenty of ways to do it without being touchy-freely in public. See if you think any of these might work for you and your relationship.
1. You can use secret signals only you two understand.
Create a special handshake or a code word that means “I love you” when you’re out and about. It could be as simple as a quick wink or tapping your nose. It’s your own little secret that no one else needs to know about. It sounds silly, but this can actually become a cute in-joke in your relationship and bring you a lot closer together.
2. Leaving surprise notes is a sweet way to show you care.
Source: Unsplash Slip a cheeky note into your partner’s coat pocket or work bag before they head out. Finding an unexpected message later in the day can be a lovely surprise and a reminder of your affection. You could even get creative and hide notes in unexpected places around the house for them to discover over time.
3. Planning thoughtful dates shows you’re paying attention.
Organise outings based on your partner’s interests. Maybe it’s a trip to their favourite museum or a concert by a band they love. Whatever you plan that you know they’ll love, it shows you’re thinking about what makes them happy. The effort you put into planning these personalised dates speaks volumes about your feelings without needing any public displays of affection.
4. Sending random texts throughout the day keeps you connected.
A quick “thinking of you” message or sharing something that reminded you of them can brighten their day, and it’s a private way to stay in touch without any public fuss. Even when you’re apart, these little messages show that your partner is on your mind and that you miss them when they’re not around.
5. Cooking their favourite meal is a tasty way to show love.
Whipping up your partner’s favourite dish is a great way to show you care. It’s a personal gesture that doesn’t involve any public displays, just the two of you enjoying a meal together. Plus, the time and effort you put into preparing the meal is a tangible expression of your affection. If acts of service is your preferred way of showing love, this is a great option.
6. Remembering the little things proves you’re paying attention.
Notice when they’re running low on their favourite snack and pick some up without being asked. It’s a small bit of thoughtfulness that can mean a lot more than grand gestures. It shows that you’re observant and attentive to their needs and preferences, which is a powerful form of affection.
7. Being a good listener shows you value their thoughts.
When your partner’s talking about their day or sharing their worries, give them your full attention. Really listening and offering support is a powerful way to show affection. It proves that you value their thoughts and feelings, creating a deeper emotional connection.
8. Offering a massage after a long day is a caring touch.
If your partner’s had a stressful day, offering to rub their shoulders or feet when you’re home alone can be a loving gesture. It’s intimate without being public, not to mention that it can help them relax and feel supported, strengthening your bond in a private setting.
9. Sharing inside jokes keeps your bond strong.
Develop your own humour that only the two of you get. Referencing these jokes when you’re out can feel like a secret show of affection without anyone else catching on. Laughing together can create a sense of intimacy and connection, even in public spaces.
10. Doing chores without being asked is a practical display of love.
Taking care of household tasks your partner usually handles, like doing the washing up or hoovering, shows you care about making their life easier. It’s a quiet but meaningful way to show affection, since it shows that you’re thinking about their well-being and are willing to put in effort to support them. It also proves that you’re willing to pull your weight and that you see the relationship as a 50/50 effort.
11. Creating a playlist of songs that remind you of them is romantic.
Source: Unsplash Put together a collection of tunes that make you think of your partner or represent your relationship. Sharing it with them can be a sweet, personal gesture. Each song becomes a musical love letter, allowing you to express your feelings through carefully chosen tracks. It might even be a nostalgic thing if you’ve been together long enough to remember making mix tapes and CDs for each other.
12. Complimenting them in private boosts their confidence.
Source: Unsplash Save your heartfelt compliments for when you’re alone together. Telling them how proud you are or how great they look can mean more when it’s just between the two of you. These private affirmations can help build their self-esteem and strengthen your emotional connection.
13. Planning surprise mini-adventures keeps things exciting.
Organise unexpected outings, like a picnic in a new spot or a day trip to a nearby town. It shows you’re invested in creating new experiences together. These spontaneous adventures can inject fresh energy into your relationship and create lasting memories.
14. Being there for the tough times proves your commitment.
When your partner’s going through a rough patch, being there to support them emotionally is a powerful form of affection. It doesn’t require any public displays, just your presence and care. Being there for them through tough times makes your bond even stronger and shows how solid your relationship is.
15. Learning about their interests shows you value what they love.
Take the time to understand their hobbies or passions, even if they’re not your cup of tea. Showing genuine interest in what matters to them is a great way to show them how much you love them. Making the effort to engage with their interests can give you things to do together and also give you a deeper appreciation for each other’s worlds.
16. Creating traditions together builds a stronger bond.
Establish rituals that are just for the two of you, like Sunday morning lie-ins or monthly game nights. These shared experiences can be deeply affectionate without any public show. Over time, these traditions become a cherished part of your relationship, offering comfort, consistency, and a unique connection that’s all your own.
