The 400 Project

Call it a day for lovers or a Hallmark invention, Valentine’s Day is here once again. I would tend to side with those of the mindset that this is just a holiday aimed at getting you to spend hard earned money. From dinner to candy and flowers, its 24 hours of prices jacked through the roof. But I’ll put my cynical thoughts aside for this article to consider what Valentine’s Day is really about.

At its core, the point of this “holiday” is actually something worth celebrating. Valentine’s Day is about appreciating those you love and showing them that you care. It’s easy to get caught up in our every day lives. Between all of our day to day responsibilities, sometimes we forget to take the time to show our significant other that we care. February 14th is a yearly reminder to slow life down, to put some time and effort into showing the person you love that you are thinking about them. Doesn’t seem like such a corporate invention when you think of it like that, right? All I’m saying is that celebrating love is something worth dedicating a day to.

The trick, I think, is not falling into the trap of feeling like spending money is the important part. The best thing you can do on this day is to spend time together. If you are going to get gifts remember that, on this holiday especially, it’s the thought that counts. You don’t need to spend money to show your love. Cook dinner, give a massage, just go out of your way to do something to show that you care. If your partner truly loves you, the amount spent won’t really matter. Show them your love, rather than trying to buy it. That’s my take anyways.

And for all you single hearts out there, don’t feel left out or discouraged. Remember that love comes in all shapes and forms, use Valentine’s Day as a way to appreciate the ones you have in your life. Send some flowers or candy to a friend or family member who has gone out of their way to support you over the past year. If you know someone is really feeling down this time of year, surprise them with a treat to pick them up. Or go out for dinner and spend some time together. Have a hobby or pastime that you love? Use Valentine’s Day as a chance to spend time doing the things that you love, but might not always have the time to do every day. Or just pick up some candy and have a binge night, treat yo self! (Pro tip: wait until the day after Valentine’s Day to do this so you can grab great candy at discount prices). The point is that there is no wrong way to spend your holiday, as long as you are happy.

Your love is unique, so don’t let anyone tell you the best way to express it. Take back February 14th as a day to celebrate in whatever way is best for you!

What are your Valentine’s Day plans? Do you have something special in mind? Share your plans in the comments section below.