Written by Carrefour Rimouski | January 25, 2022
February 14 is often thought of as a holiday for lovers to celebrate. We think of chocolate, a bouquet of flowers, sweet nothings. But it’s not just love with a capital L that exists and deserves to be emphasized on this occasion! This feeling can take many forms and is present all around us, even in the smallest everyday trivialities. Love is also the compassion in the eyes of friends who comfort us. It is the moments of play and cuddles with our pets or a colleague who gives us a boost when we think we can’t go on.
At a time when we need to take care of ourselves and others more than ever, why not take the opportunity to increase the number of small acts of kindness around us? Here are 8 ways to share a little love with everyone around us.
1. Love yourself first
Taking time just for yourself to do what you enjoy is not selfish at all! It is even essential to recharge your batteries once in a while. This Valentine’s Day, take some time out for yourself to pamper and spoil yourself, simply because you deserve it! Need inspiration? Plan a relaxing evening: order in from your favorite restaurant and watch a feel-good movie before ending the evening in an ultra-relaxing bubble bath.
2. Celebrate in your romantic cocoon
With teleworking, the pandemic may have brought a little boredom to your relationship. Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to break the routine and celebrate the beauty of your relationship by doing something a little extravagant. Why not organize an ultra-chic evening, but… at home? No more casual clothes: get dressed up, put a bottle of bubbly in the fridge, and order a sumptuous meal fit for royalty. Don’t forget, of course, to take a few photos to immortalize this sweet moment.
3. Stick together with mini formats
As a family, tenderness is experienced on a daily basis, even in the smallest gestures. To amaze your toddlers and school-age children, why not make Valentine’s Day a big celebration of love? Help the youngest make decorations such as garlands or greeting cards to decorate the house. You can add sweet words and compliments for each member of the family. To make the day even more festive, prepare red snacks and, of course, don’t hesitate to offer hugs at will!
4. Appreciate your friends first
Our friends are so precious: they are by our side in good times and in bad. On Valentine’s Day, take the time to celebrate your different friendships. It’s the perfect time to write each of your friends a nice message to thank them for their support, for listening, or even for their humor that is good for morale. Mention how their presence has a positive impact on your life. Add photos you’ve taken together and funny anecdotes to your message, and you’re done. You’ll make people happy, guaranteed!
5. Get closer to the first people who loved us
Ah! The unconditional love of parents and grandparents is so sweet and so precious! They have taken care of you since day 1 and have seen you grow and develop ever since. Why not take advantage of Valentine’s Day to show them that you are thinking of them? Express your gratitude and love by gathering the photos you have with them, then send them the photo album with a little affectionate note. They will be delighted to reminisce about all these beautiful memories with you.
6. Thank our everyday companions
Working from home has taught us to collaborate differently with our colleagues, and they have become like a second family. On Valentine’s Day, show them how much you appreciate their support and listening skills. Why not send them a coupon that they can exchange at a time of their choosing for a homemade lunch or dinner at a restaurant? It’s a small gesture that will be greatly appreciated! If your work situation allows it, treat your favorite colleagues to a delicious homemade snack, or even a pretty little plant to decorate their desk.
7. Pamper our four-legged friends
Our four-legged friends accompany us without judgment in our best moments as well as in our worst. Recently, they too have often taken part in our many video meetings and have had to adapt to our more frequent presence at home. Not always easy! On Valentine’s Day, spoil them by giving them their favorite treat or a new toy that they will love. Kisses guaranteed!
8. Share with those who need it most
If your situation allows it, why not spread some love outside your network too, with those in need? Whether your compassion is directed towards animals in shelters, elderly people living alone, or families in need, there are so many people and causes to which we can give a little support and love. If you would like to offer a helping hand, you can make a donation to an organization that is close to your heart, contribute your surplus food to community fridges, or even offer a few hours of your time by volunteering. Giving is so rewarding. What a great way to spread the love!
Happy Valentine’s Day!