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I have met many people in relationships, even married couples who seem unsure their partners will be around tomorrow. This kind of uncertainty erodes the quality of a relationship as each person is focused on getting out with as little damage as possible. It is a sad situation to find yourself in indeed.
Fortunately, true devotion is something that can be earned over time through actions, sacrifices, and a willingness to put the relationship above your ego. When you show your partner that they can trust and rely on you for emotional and physical support, they will naturally gravitate toward you and you will become their unwavering source of devotion.
Selflessness
In relationships, being there for your partner during times of crisis is often more meaningful than the grand gestures on special occasions. When a situation arises that requires you to act decisively; whether that is covering for them in a legal or financial crisis, or stepping up when others might not; your actions speak louder than words. This is what the Italians refer to as Carpe Diem or seizing the day. Seizing the day means being the hero in their life when they least expect it.
Be the bridge, not the barrier
Often, the relationship with a partner’s family is a sensitive and delicate area, especially with mothers-in-law, there can be existing tension or preconceived notions. However, the more you show empathy and love for your partner’s family, the more you reveal your commitment to their entire world, not just them as an individual. Being able to forgive, overlook past conflicts, or make an extra effort to form a bond with family members, even when they may not immediately warm to you, shows maturity and understanding.
For example, make an effort to visit your in-laws, organise celebrations or take an active interest in their lives. It also makes your partner realise that you value everything that makes them who they are.
Share responsibility
The modern relationship demands more than just traditional roles. The notion that housework is solely a woman’s responsibility has long been debunked, yet many still carry these expectations into relationships. Dear men, if you want that woman in your life hooked onto you, take a proactive role in housework; whether it is cooking, cleaning or laundry. This is one way to demonstrate that you are invested in creating a balanced, equitable partnership. This is particularly significant if your partner has been bogged down with tasks they feel overburdened by, or if they always do the heavy lifting in domestic duties.
When men, in particular, take the initiative to manage housework without being prompted, it challenges traditional gender expectations, making your partner feel supported rather than taken for granted.
It also fosters mutual respect, as it is a clear signal that you care about your shared home and are willing to contribute equally. It also demonstrates that you are confident enough in your masculinity to be able to take initiative.
Be generous
Financial generosity in relationships is a complex subject, but one that can fortify your bond in unexpected ways. This is not simply about giving money; it is about showing your partner that you can be counted on in times of financial need, or that you are able to anticipate their wants and desires without expecting anything in return.
The key to this type of giving is it being unconditional. If you can give without questioning or making your partner feel guilty, this generosity creates an unspoken foundation of trust.
It is also important to note that generosity is not just about handing over cash, it is about time, effort, and thoughtfulness in your actions.
Whether it is investing in their personal growth, giving them experiences instead of material gifts, or supporting their ventures, the thought behind your generosity reinforces a sense of security in the relationship. When someone knows they can rely on their partner to be there for both emotional and financial support, it solidifies the relationship in ways that are hard to replace.
Physical presence
Relationships thrive when both partners are fully engaged in each other’s lives. It is about being the constant presence in your partner’s world, someone who will not only be their lover but also their confidant, their rock, and their safe space.
Emotional availability and willingness to grow together create a unique intimacy that is hard to break.
Your partner’s devotion is nurtured by how consistently you show up in their life; and how you adapt, change, and grow together. It is in those quiet moments when no one else is watching that a true connection is built.
So, rather than seeking validation, focus on genuinely supporting, understanding, and growing with your partner. In turn, that will naturally draw out their devotion to you, without you needing to “earn” it.
