Not too long ago, Kristen Bell made the internet collectively swoon with the Instagram message she posted to celebrate her husband, Dax Shepard’s 14th soberversary. In her message, she recognized his parenting skills (of both humans and dogs) and how hard he’s worked to stay sober.
“I know how much you loved using. I know how much it got in your way. And I know, because I saw, how hard you worked to live without it. I will forever be in awe of your dedication, and the level of fierce moral inventory you perform on yourself, like an emotional surgery, every single night. You never fail to make amends, or say sorry when it’s needed. You are always available to guide me, and all of our friends, with open ears and tough love when it’s needed most. You have become the fertilizer in the garden of our life, encouraging everyone to grow. I’m so proud that you have never been ashamed of your story, but instead shared it widely, with the hope it might inspire someone else to become the best version of themselves.
You have certainly inspired me to do so,”
(No, you’re the one crying.)
It’s amazing the effect a simple but moving note on social media can have. With that said, you don’t have to be a celebrity or pen a heartfelt missive like Bell’s to show the person you’re dating that you care and appreciate them. Here are a few super easy and sweet things you can do to show your date that you think they’re the bee’s knees.
- Text them out of the blue.
Who says you need a reason to text someone? There’s something to be said about texting someone to say, “hey, I think you’re an awesome person. I just thought you should know <3” It takes two minutes, but pays huge dividends in making the other person feel special.
- Bringing them their favorite snack.
If you show up for our date with a bag of Haribo gummy bears, I will love you forever. Okay, maybe “love” is a strong word, but I’ll definitely smile ear to ear. Show your date that you’ve been paying attention and come armed with their favorite snack.
- Send them a message on social media.
While I’d be pretty weirded out if the person I had *just* started dating posted a public message like Kristen Bell’s, if you’re already friends on social media, there’s no harm in letting the other person know that you’re thinking of them and think they’re great. Just maybe keep it private for the time being.
- Even better….write them a handwritten note.
If the person you’re dating isn’t big on social media, a nice handwritten note or card is an easy and romantic way to let them know that you appreciate them.
- Make them a playlist.
The Spotify playlist is the new mixtape. If the person you’re dating has a boring commute or is trying to get back into working out (or even if they’re not) make them a playlist — because who doesn’t love having new music at their disposal?
- Do something that makes their life easier.
Whether it’s taking out the garbage when you get to their apartment, bringing them lunch to work or offering to give them a ride to that inconveniently located appointment, finding ways to make the other person’s life just a little easier is a great way to show that you care.
