Valentine’s Day: A Straightforward Guide to Showing Up

Because ignoring it probably won’t work.

Photo by Jamie Street

Valentine’s Day can feel like a hassle. Maybe you think it’s a made-up holiday designed to sell overpriced roses, or maybe you don’t think about it at all until someone reminds you. Either way, it’s here, and ignoring it might not work in your favor.

The good news? You don’t need to buy into the hype to make the day meaningful. Think of it as an opportunity to show up for your partner, plain and simple.

A Little Context

Valentine’s Day didn’t start with candy hearts and fancy dinners. Its origins trace back to a time when making a commitment could mean risking everything. Saint Valentine was imprisoned and beheaded on February 14th 270 AD for secretly marrying couples in defiance of Roman Emperor Claudius Gothicus. Over the centuries, the day evolved into a celebration of loyalty, respect, and love.

While today’s version of Valentine’s Day feels a little...different, the essence of it remains: taking time to honor your relationship. And if you’re not much for history? Think of it this way: showing you care doesn’t mean losing your edge—it means taking care of what matters.

Why Valentine’s Day Matters

Here’s the thing: ignoring Valentine’s Day won’t make it go away. If your partner values it—even a little—it can be an easy win. And if you’re thinking, Why should I have to do anything at all? consider this: strong relationships are built on small, consistent acts of care. Showing you’re tuned in isn’t about being soft—it’s about being smart.

You don’t need to write poetry or plan some elaborate evening (unless you’re into that). The real goal is making your partner feel seen and appreciated. When you make that effort, you’re investing in your relationship—and a good relationship makes everything else in life better.

Keeping It Simple: Three Keys to Valentine’s Day

Let’s skip the fluff. A solid Valentine’s Day boils down to three things: connection, excitement, and a little romance. Here’s how to make that happen:

1. Connection:
Take the time to really focus on your partner. Put your phone down, turn off the game, and give them your attention. Ask about something they care about or reflect on what you admire about them. Even a five-minute conversation can mean more than you think.

2. Excitement:
Surprise them. This doesn’t mean skydiving (unless that’s your thing). It could be as simple as cooking a meal they didn’t expect, planning a quick getaway, or just doing something out of the ordinary. Novelty keeps relationships fresh.

3. Romance:
Yes, romance. It doesn’t have to be mushy. A handwritten note, a sincere compliment, or just holding their hand can do the trick. Romance isn’t about grand gestures; it’s about reminding your partner they’re special to you.

If You’re Not into Valentine’s Day

Not a fan of the holiday? That’s fair. But skipping it entirely can send the wrong message. A small effort goes a long way. Just like regular maintenance keeps your truck running, small gestures keep your relationship strong. You don’t have to love Valentine’s Day—you just have to respect what it means to your partner.

The Bottom Line: Handle Your Business

Valentine’s Day is less about what you do and more about the fact that you do something. It’s a chance to remind your partner that you’re in this together. You don’t have to be flashy, and you don’t have to follow anyone else’s playbook. Just be thoughtful, genuine, and consistent.

Strong relationships don’t happen by accident. They’re built through effort, loyalty, and showing up—on Valentine’s Day and every other day. So step up, handle your business, and make your partner glad they chose you.

If you would like more information on how to apply these concepts to your situation, schedule a free consultation.