Strengthening Love Through Fondness and Admiration
Love is built not just in grand gestures but in the small, everyday moments of appreciation. One of the most important elements of a happy, long-lasting relationship is sharing fondness and admiration—an essential principle identified by Dr. John Gottman as a key to nurturing trust, intimacy, and resilience in marriage.
This week, as part of the Virtual Relationship Pilgrimage, we focus on how actively recognizing and expressing appreciation for your partner’s qualities strengthens your relationship and deepens your emotional connection.
Why Fondness and Admiration Matter
At the heart of every strong relationship is a foundation of emotional warmth, respect, and appreciation. When couples regularly notice and express gratitude for one another, they build a culture of positivity, trust, and connection—one that acts as a protective shield during difficult times.
💙 Fondness is the emotional warmth and affection you feel toward your partner.
💙 Admiration is the deep respect and appreciation for who your partner is—their qualities, strengths, and values.
When these two elements are regularly nurtured, couples are more likely to navigate life’s ups and downs with resilience. However, when appreciation fades, small annoyances can become major frustrations, and connection can weaken.
How to Cultivate Appreciation in Your Relationship
Like a pilgrimage, love requires intention, focus, and daily effort. Here are three simple ways to foster fondness and admiration in your relationship:
💛 See the Good in Your Partner Daily – No matter how small, take time to acknowledge and appreciate the positive qualities in your spouse. This practice shifts your mindset toward gratitude rather than criticism.
💛 Express Appreciation in Words and Actions – Whether through a kind word, a thoughtful gesture, or a simple “thank you,” regularly show your partner how much you value them.
💛 Celebrate Your Partner’s Wins – Take joy in your spouse’s accomplishments, whether big or small. Their happiness is your happiness.
Relationship Activity for the Week
This week, take a daily walk together and track your walk using the Camino for Good App and try this simple challenge:
🚶♂️ During your walk, take turns sharing five things you admire about each other. These can be personality traits, actions, or qualities that make you feel lucky to have them.
💬 At the end of the week, reflect on how this activity has strengthened your connection. What did you learn about each other? Did expressing appreciation help shift your focus to the positive?
Continue the Journey of Love and Growth
Strengthening your relationship is an ongoing pilgrimage, one that requires commitment, intentionality, and daily connection. If you’re ready to deepen your bond and walk together in love, join the Camino for Good Virtual Relationship Pilgrimage!
📖 Use the Hiking & Meditation Guide for Couples to continue your journey.
👉 Sign Up for the Virtual Pilgrimage Here
This week, choose to celebrate love, admiration, and appreciation—not just today, but every day. A relationship built on fondness and admiration is one that will endure through all of life’s adventures.
💛 Buen Camino! 🚶♂️❤️
