Every year I continue to hear people complain about how the person they like, or partner hasn’t asked them to be their valentine. The holiday has me wondering if there are some things that we can all collectively do better to make it more enjoyable. Mine and others’ expectations of the holiday have gone down as the years pass.

People want to be pampered and taken care of. People want to be surprised with whatever is planned. Everyone deserves to know that they are listened to and loved, especially on Valentine’s Day. I wish I enjoyed the holiday more than I do right now. It also feels like no one looks forward to it.

Valentine’s Day gifts should be just as personal and meaningful as a gift bought for Christmas or birthdays. Gifts should match the person that is receiving the gift. That gift could be some kind of experience or a date night to show appreciation for the other person. Also, homemade gifts could be perfect, since these are the best and most memorable gifts. Any gifts that you think will help the other person’s life a little better is a great gift.

It feels like the holiday has become an afterthought and not much effort is put into it. There are plenty of easy ways to make somebody feel special during the holiday of love. Whenever I see people talk about it, they are always scrambling to get a gift or make plans two days prior.

In the future, it would be nice for everyone to go the extra mile on this all about love.