Last-minute Valentine's Day tips
Just because you've never been a 'Valentines person' doesn't mean you never can be.
Here at Agent Monday, we are all about helping you build an epic real estate business. That includes taking care of your mental health, and your home life. Because what's the point of succeeding if we can't share that success with our loved ones?
It's not easy being the partner or spouse of a real estate professional. There aren't many jobs that involve constant phone calls at all hours of the day (especially during family dinners), random appointments on the weekend often made at short notice, and the emotional rollercoaster of an unreliable income stream.
Long story short, our partners put up with a lot. And we should take little moments when we can to honour their commitment, love and sacrifice.
Valentine's Day can be one of those moments.
Now I'm not a big believer in commercial holidays. I don't like buying into the BS and the expectation created by all the marketing constantly telling us to lavish our partners with expensive gifts.
But taking a moment to acknowledge your partner doesn't have to be expensive. And while most people rebel against the whole idea of Valentine's Day, and choose to do nothing, no partner is going to complain if you take a moment to prioritise them and make them feel special.
Just because you've never been a 'Valentines person' doesn't mean you never can be.
Why not try something simple this year? (ideas below)
Keep in mind that small acts of love that require a little thought and effort often mean a lot more than a bunch of flowers, or even jewellery. The greatest gift you can give anyone is your time.
5 last-minute Valentine's Day ideas to show your love
1. Surprise lunchtime picnic.
Visit your favourite bakery, cafe, or just grab some snacks and a few drinks from the supermarket and pick your partner up at lunchtime. Take them somewhere quiet - by the beach, or at a park, and enjoy some time together. Don't forget utensils, and don't forget to turn your phone off!
If lunchtime isn't possible, do a picnic dinner instead.
2. Take the morning off
Show your family they come first by being the last one to leave the house. Use the opportunity to make breakfast for your family, walk the kids to school, go for a walk with your partner, or have a sleep-in together.
Bonus points: Watch your partner's favourite movie in bed together
3. Leave a handwritten love note at home.
Pop home during the day and leave a note on the bench saying how much you love them, how you miss them and how you can't wait to be home. You can mix this up too - leave the note under their pillow, or in their car, or in their bag. Or make multiple notes!
If you are unsure what to write, focus on a quality you love. I.e. "I love the way you say good morning to the kids each day, it makes me so happy." or "Your smile lifts me up every single day."
Simple is fine. It's the thought that counts.
4. Send them a song
Sometimes it's hard to find the words to say how you feel. Instead, send your partner a song. To make this easy for you, I have prepared a Spotify playlist called 'Songs to send your lover'. It's got a wide range of music from every decade and genre, so there is something for everyone. Whatever you do - don't send them the whole playlist!! Just one song.
5. Set up a surprise picnic
This is a great option if you are really short on time.
Let's say your family all get home at 3:30 pm. You have appointments from 3 - 6 pm but you have a gap from 2 - 3 pm. Why not go buy a bunch of their favourite foods and set up a surprise picnic at home, with some music playing so they get a cool surprise when they walk in the door.
Bonus suggestion!
6. Pick your own wildflower bouquet
Anyone can visit or call a florist and order a bunch of expensive flowers. But if you want the free and more meaningful version, why not go to your local park and pick some wildflowers? Throw in some greenery to make it look epic. Tie it all up with some flax or string and take them home with you.
Making an effort this Valentine's Day doesn't have to be expensive. All it takes is a tiny bit of effort. You could even combine some of the ideas above if you really felt like pushing the boat out ;)
Even if you think doing something for Valentine's Day is 'uncool', always remember: No one ever complained that someone took the time to show them they were loved.
Here's another quote I love so much:
"If you don't date your spouse, someone else will."
You can find more ideas in this guide:
Andrew Duncan
