Fondness and Admiration

March 2025

Fondness and Admiration form the basis of a strong, lasting relationship. They create a positive perspective of your partner and your shared history.

Why Fondness and Admiration Matter

  • Buffer against conflict
    • Maintain positive sentiment override
      • Strengthen emotional connection
        • Increase relationship satisfaction

          Cultivating Fondness and Admiration

          • Express appreciation daily
            • Focus on positive qualities
              • Recall happy memories together
                • Use affectionate language

                  Fondness and Admiration Exercise

                  Try this:

                  1. List three qualities you admire in your partner
                    1. Share a specific example of each quality in action
                      1. Express how these qualities make you feel

                        Overcoming Negativity Bias

                        • Actively look for positives
                          • Challenge negative thoughts
                            • Practice gratitude
                              • Reframe complaints as wishes

                                Signs of Strong Fondness and Admiration

                                • You speak proudly of your partner to others
                                  • You feel lucky to be with your partner
                                    • You easily recall why you fell in love
                                      • You respond to bids for connection

                                        Rebuilding Fondness and Admiration

                                        • Reminisce about your early relationship
                                          • Create new positive experiences together
                                            • Practice seeing your partner’s perspective
                                              • Acknowledge and appreciate efforts

                                                Remember, Fondness and Admiration require regular nurturing. Make expressing appreciation a daily habit.