Displaying Affection to a Friend Through Words

You can show affection through acts of kindness and exchanging gifts. However, the right words spoken at the right time have the power to make just about anyone feel extra special. Words can build up, show appreciation and send a positive message. Praise, compliments and words of gratitude show your friend that you are thinking of her, that you care and consider her important and can draw you closer together. When spoken honestly and from the heart, what may seem like mere words can lift your friend's mood, confidence and feelings of self-worth.

Take notice of the things that your friend does well. You can say things like, “You draw very well. You should try submitting your work to the local newspaper.” “You always look great. You are such a good dresser.” Congratulate your friend for important achievements such as getting good grades on his tests or being named employee of the month at work. Your friend will appreciate you taking notice of him and what he does, showing him that he's special to you.

Do not miss any opportunity to tell your friend that you are grateful for her friendship. Say "thank you" whenever she does something for you -- even if it is something that is her responsibility to do -- or when she goes out of her way to do or say something nice. Thank her when she tries to cheer you up by making silly faces, telling jokes, using encouraging words or giving you a warm hug. Your gratitude will tell your friend that you are happy she is a part of your life, says "Psychology Today" columnist Rita Watson, in her article, "10 Ways to Express Love."

Express your affection by writing your friend a letter telling him how you feel. Don;t wait for a special occasion to compose a personal poem or song of friendship just for your pal. You can also make a recording of a love message and send it through social media. Give your friend special fortune cookie fortunes about love or friendship. Give candy with personal messages printed on it. Do not shy away from using those three little words; say "I love you" and mean it.

Try singing the praises for your friend to others. Give her a good reason to blush as you praise her in front of a group of friends or to your family. Mention how good a friend she is to you or talk about her talents. Choose something nice to say about your friend to her mother or a mutual friend. Give her a special mention in your online blog. This is by far the best way to talk behind your friend’s back.