How to Celebrate Valentine's Day the Right Way

Kathleen Maiman • February 11, 2021

Despite being the celebration of love and affection, Valentine’s Day can be one of the most stressful holidays of the year for couples everywhere.

The romantic occasion can introduce a number of unpleasant feelings. For example, you might feel anxious about meeting your partner’s expectations, who, in turn, may be comparing themselves negatively to other couples.

Many people find themselves battling feelings of unworthiness, anxiety, and resentment related to how their partner treats them this February the 14th.

While celebrating your relationship is an ongoing process that can’t be compressed into one day, here are a few tips on how to make this Valentine’s Day truly romantic, fulfilling, and enjoyable for both you and your partner.

1. Stay Focused

Much of the stress related to February the 14th has to do with the days and weeks leading up to it, in the form of planning and arrangements. For example, you might be hyper-focused on securing a dinner reservation at your favourite restaurant on one of the busiest nights of the year. After all, a perfect night means checking every box, right?

The busywork of planning the perfect date night can distract you from what really matters. Try asking yourself what you think would really make your partner happy. What will bring you closer as a couple?

2. Try a Surprise

Over the years, I’ve learned that many couples enjoy a surprise on Valentine’s Day. The trick is to make the surprise a meaningful one. For example, if your partner enjoys the outdoors, try visiting a park you’ve never been to before. If your partner loves ice cream, take them to the new ice cream shop that opened up last month.

Accepting the responsibility to coordinate a self-sacrificing surprise activity is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to show your partner you appreciate and care for them.

3. Go Out

A romantic night out doesn't have to include months of planning. Keep things simple and romantic with a change in your day-to-day routine. While going out doesn’t have to mean spending the entire day outside, taking a walk or grabbing dinner is a great way to spend quality time in each other’s company.

Many people celebrate Valentine’s Day before or after February the 14th for lower costs, lighter crowds, or less hectic work schedules. Celebrating earlier or later than the 14th is perfectly fine as long as you communicate with your partner beforehand to make sure they don’t feel disappointed. It’s also a good idea to do something small on the 14th, such as a card or a note.

Find Your Way Back to Romance With Couple's Counsellor Kathleen Maiman

Exercising patience, kindness, passion, and romance doesn’t have to be limited to holidays, birthdays, and anniversaries. Learn to express love on a daily basis with The Love of Attraction couple's counselling sessions. Work alongside registered psychotherapist Kathleen Maiman to reintroduce compassion into your relationship.

Find out more about the couples therapy and counselling services offered by clicking here. Feel free to contact me directly if you have any questions.

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