Acts of Service Love Language: 20 Examples

Actions speak louder than words, so acts of service may be how you demonstrate your love for others. Show loved ones you care with some of these acts of service examples.

Acts of service is one of the five love languages which refer to ways of expressing and receiving love. The others are words of affirmation, quality time, receiving gifts, and physical touch. While love languages are typically discussed in the context of a romantic relationship, they’re relevant for any type of relationship, including familial relationships and friendships. 

Acts of service, specifically, refers to showing love and affection through actions. Big and small gestures can be ways of showing your love nonverbally. Taking the time to do something you know your loved one would appreciate can go a long way to show how you feel about them. There are many ways to do this, check out some of these acts of service examples. 

Under the name of “Practical”, acts of service also find their place as a love language in an extended framework. Learn more: What Are the 7 Love Languages and What Do They Mean?

Small Gestures

Tune in to your loved one’s wants and needs by paying attention to what they mention throughout the day. Take mental notes while spending time with them so that you can perform acts of service that they’ll be sure to appreciate. Here are some ideas of small gestures to help improve your loved one’s day. 

1. Bring them a tea or coffee
2. Offer a relaxing massage
3. Draw them a bubble bath
4. Buy products they are running low on without them needing to ask
5. Change the sheets and make the bed
6. Organize the kitchen pantry 
7. Make them a personalized playlist

Helping Out

Sometimes, acts of service include doing things for others that you may not enjoy. You can make your loved one’s life easier by helping out in their daily life. Pitch in when and where you can.

1. Do the laundry
2. Take out the trash
3. Water the plants
4. Walk the dog
5. Do the dishes
6. Shovel snow, mow the lawn and/or sweep the walkway
7. Schedule their appointments
8. Pick up groceries, prescriptions, dry cleaning, and their favorite snacks
9. Ask them how you can help

Make an Effort

Bigger gestures can be really fun to plan and take part in as well! There are lots of ways to show people how much you love and appreciate them. 

1. Prepare a picnic 
2. Organize an outing for a date night, trip to the movies, or a long hike
3. Plan a weekend away and plan the itinerary all on your own, so that your loved one can enjoy the weekend with no stress
4. Organize an at-home activity like a game night complete with homemade cocktails

Read more:

• 30 Words of Affirmation Examples for Loved Ones
• Long Distance Friendship: Maintaining Relationships from Afar
• 6 Tips to Help You Set Boundaries In Your Relationship

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Tags: Guide Mental Health Relationships