Committed partners often say they wish they could read their partner’s minds. “What does s/he want from me?”  The 5 Love Languages offers hope.

In this easy read, Gary Chapman outlines 5 key ways people show — and hence like to receive — love. For example, some people like to give affirmation (‘you look great in that suit’), and others show caring by physical touch (hugging and holding hands). Chapman says that we usually give love to our partners the way we want to get it back.

My takeaway is that everyone likes to receive love differently. Knowing how you like to be loved, as well as how your partner likes to, can lead to a more connected relationship.

It’s a worthwhile read for couples clinicians and, for that matter, anyone in a relationship.