February is known for being the month of love. Whether it’s loving your significant other on Valentine’s Day or loving yourself on Singles Awareness Day, Cupid’s arrows just seems to hit everyone in one way or another. Celebrating love is a truly wonderful idea. After all, it is what makes the world go around. But here’s the thing about love; it’s not just a holiday.
Everyone gets so frantic about buying chocolates, roses and stuffed animals that they seem to forget what love actually is. Love is t-i-m-e, not m-o-n-e-y. When it comes to showing someone, even yourself, how much you care for and respect them, it shouldn’t be limited to one day a year. It should be shown every day, in ways that don’t cost you a trip to the local store or shipping expenses on Amazon.
Here are 14 ways to celebrate your love for others, and yourself, every day of the year.
1.Observe the little things
Everyone always notices the big things, but it takes someone special to notice the little things. Whether it’s something as little as him or her looking well-rested and happy, or something more grand, as a new hair colour, take the time to notice the difference. Not only does it show the other person that you really do pay attention, but it’s actually the little things that make us truly fall in love with the other person.
2. Talk about life
Anyone can chat, but not everyone can talk. Sure, it’s great to talk about the latest gossip or entertainment news, but nothing is as lustful as talking about life. Grab a cup of coffee, sit down in some comfortable chairs and talk about the news, hopes, dreams, fears and anything else that makes you utilise your brain for more than just gossip.
3. Listen
Listening is key to good communication. When you talk about life, don’t just go on and on about what you want… listen to what he or she wants. What do they hope for? What do they dream? By really listening to someone and learning what makes them happy and what makes them tick, you learn to appreciate them for their individuality, and in turn, develop a better relationship.
4. Try something new
Committing to the same routine everyday tends to make life rather mundane. Instead of doing the typical date on Friday nights or Takeout Tuesdays, aim to do something new. Go rock climbing, skydiving or maybe even just sign up for a book club or painting class. When you’re willing to go on adventures together, you’re helping each other grow and having fun in the process.
5. Set up a challenge
It is said that if it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you. Share your New Year Resolutions with your significant other and help each other accomplish them. Join a running group, go on a health challenge, sign up for a difficult class or maybe even do something you’ve always been afraid of. Accomplishing a challenge makes your relationship stronger, and helps you both grow while doing so.
6. Take a day off
It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life. When you feel like you haven’t been able to spend much quality time with each other, abandon all responsibilities and spend the day with each other. Whether you go out for a day of fun or stay home to binge watch your favourite show, it will help you maintain your overall well-being.
7. Express yourself
Don’t be afraid to express how you feel about various situations. If you’re mad about something, tell them. If you’re upset about something that happened at work, ask if you can talk about. If you saw something that reminded you of your significant other while you’re apart, share this with them. Love is about the good, the bad and the ugly so express yourself freely regardless of the scenario.
8. Never go to bed angry
The worst thing you could possibly do is go to bed when you’re annoyed at your partner. One or both of you will wake up in an even worse mood, and usually it makes the situation a hundred times worse. You don’t have to resolve the conflict right away but by all means, you should at least take the time to reach some sort of temporary consensus. Even if that means taking a break from the conversation and returning to it tomorrow, do whatever you can to make sure you go to bed on good terms.
9. When in doubt, hug it out
Science has proven that hugging and physically showing you care for someone creates a stronger affinity. Who’s going to argue with the science of love?
10. Learn something new
No two people are exactly the same, so there’s a pretty definite chance your significant other will be an expert in something you know nothing about. Learn something from them. Have your partner teach you about a different culture, how to ski, or maybe even introduce you to a new book genre. Whatever you learn keep your eyes wide and your mind open. Showing acceptance is a prime way of showing love.
11. Food, food, food
The way to a person’s heart is through their stomach. Whether you surprise them with their favourite homemade dish or take them out to that new restaurant the two of you have been dying to try, nothing can go wrong when there’s food involved. Just make sure you’re aware of food allergies. Otherwise, plenty can go wrong.
12. Capture the moments
Memories fade, but archives last forever. Take photos, write down memories or maybe even record some conversations or adventures. You won’t remember everything said or every little thing you’ve done together as time goes by, so take advantage of the beauty of linguistics and technology and jot some stuff down. It’s always fun to relive your best memories.
13. Create a bucket list
Nothing says time like commitment. When you create a bucket list together, you’re showing that you’re in it for the long haul. These lists turn dreams into goals and what if’s into will be’s. Write your list and start planning your adventures. Remember to include number 12 of this list in your adventures.
14. Let them know how much you care
Sometimes there’s nothing that an “I love you” or an “I appreciate you” can’t fix. People like to be assured that they’re cared for, and a lot of the time, that reassurance stems from verbal communication. Just take a few minutes and tell your partner how much you care about them for who they are. It’ll make a world of a difference.
