10 free, lasting Valentine's Day gifts 1-5
Valentine's Day is often criticized as yet another commercial holiday but it doesn't have to be this way. Add some meaning to the day of lovers by giving your beloved a gift that's free and lasting. Here are 10:
1. Appreciation
Feeling recognized and valued is one of our deepest needs from our partner. This Valentine's Day, tell your sweetie what you love about him or her. Include the small and quirky things. When your partner feels appreciated by you, she or he will shine and be more inclined to remember and express the things she or he values about you, too.
2. Trust
Trust is the foundation of true intimacy. It's the container of safety that allows closeness and passion to flourish. This year give the gift of trust and be trustworthy. Be where you say you are going to be, when you say you're going to be there. Don't ever lie to your partner. Also, take the risk to trust. Step outside your comfort zone by sharing something about yourself that you haven't told your partner before. The greater the level of trust between you, the stronger your relationship will be.
3. Understanding
We all want to feel heard, especially by our mate. This year, work on your listening skills. Make time to listen and to understand the world through your partner's eyes. Ask his or her opinion about world politics or his or her thoughts on some aspect of your relationship. You'll fight less often and feel closer to each other.
4. Laughter
Having fun together feels terrific and it's a powerful connection-builder. When was the last time you laughed with your partner? It's so easy for the stresses and responsibilities of everyday life to suck the playfulness out of us. This Valentine's Day, crack your partner up. Surprise him, do something together that you used to do that made you laugh, or try something new together that'll create mirth.
5. Respect
Research shows that treating your partner with disrespect puts you at a higher risk for divorce. Take an honest look at how you interact with your partner. Do you communicate a high regard for his or her choices, thoughts, job, parenting strengths? When you have conflict, do you express your feelings with respect or do you resort to name-calling and insults? Make this Valentine's Day an opportunity to improve your approach. Your relationship will become happier and warmer as a result.
Page 1 of 2
