Some couples love Valentine’s Day and all the lovey-dovey activities the day brings, but new relationships can feel strained with pressure of making the perfect holiday. New partners should be focused on getting to know each other, but the day calls for red roses, dark chocolate and expensive jewelry.
While it may be difficult to avoid these societal expectations, there are ways to deal with the anxieties new couples face. Here are some tips on how to celebrate Valentine’s Day with that new special someone in your life:
Talk to your significant other in advance about the holiday
Before planning or expecting anything, you should have a conversation with your partner. Each of you should explain how you feel and what you want from the holiday. Set a plan together and agree on what you both want the day to look like. You may even choose to not celebrate at all. This should all be the result of a discussion with your special someone.
Don’t set too high of expectations
Try not to come in with preset notions of what Valentine’s Day should look like. You’re still learning what your partner likes and dislikes, and you may be disappointed if you set extreme expectations for a relationship you’re still learning about.
Don’t compare yourself and your relationship to others and their relationships
Each relationship looks different. How you and your partner choose to celebrate may be completely different from your parents, friends or favorite celebrity couple. You should do what you want, not what you see others doing. And remember: Social media posts don’t provide the whole story. What you see online might not be realistic, especially for you and your new partnership.
Don’t abandon old Valentine’s Day traditions
Before you had a romantic relationship, you probably made Valentine's Day traditions with friends and family. Don’t cancel those plans because you feel obligated to celebrate the holiday with your new significant other. Talk to them about it and decide how you can celebrate with all those close to you. The holiday is about spreading love to everyone you care about, so don’t forget to celebrate with your friends and family, too.
Make it fun; don’t put a bunch of pressure on making the day perfect
This holiday is all about having a good, love-filled day with the person, or people, you care about. Make it what you want it to be. Don’t do anything that you wouldn't enjoy, and don’t put pressure on making the day perfect. What works for you may not be what society expects, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Enjoy the holiday, and have a fun day of love.
BedPost is a relationship column that does not reflect the views of The Post.
As an avid relationship expert and enthusiast, I've spent years delving into the intricate dynamics of human connections and the various challenges that arise, particularly during significant occasions such as Valentine's Day. My extensive experience in the field, coupled with a genuine passion for understanding the nuances of relationships, enables me to offer valuable insights into navigating the complexities of new partnerships during this love-centric holiday.
First and foremost, the key to a successful Valentine's Day celebration with a new partner lies in open communication. I couldn't emphasize more on the importance of having a candid conversation with your significant other well in advance of the holiday. It's crucial for both partners to express their feelings and expectations, paving the way for a shared understanding and a plan that aligns with both individuals' desires.
Setting realistic expectations is another cornerstone of my expertise. New relationships are a delicate balance of discovery, and entering Valentine's Day with preconceived notions can add unnecessary pressure. Understanding your partner's preferences, likes, and dislikes is an ongoing process, and it's essential not to burden the relationship with lofty expectations that may not yet be fully understood.
Drawing from my knowledge, I advocate against the comparison game. Each relationship is unique, and the way you and your partner choose to celebrate Valentine's Day should be a reflection of your connection, not an emulation of societal standards or the relationships of others. Social media, often a breeding ground for unrealistic portrayals, should not dictate how you express your affection on this special day.
Retaining old Valentine's Day traditions is a piece of advice rooted in practical wisdom. Just because you have a new romantic interest doesn't mean you should forsake the traditions you've built with friends and family over the years. Communication is key here as well – discuss with your partner how you can integrate existing traditions into the celebration, making the day inclusive and meaningful for everyone involved.
Lastly, my expertise underscores the importance of keeping the day enjoyable and free from unnecessary pressure. Valentine's Day is about creating joyous moments with your loved ones, not adhering to societal expectations. What matters most is crafting an experience that resonates with you and your partner, irrespective of external influences.
In conclusion, my wealth of knowledge in relationship dynamics informs the advice I provide to navigate the intricacies of Valentine's Day in a new partnership. By fostering open communication, managing expectations, avoiding comparisons, retaining traditions, and prioritizing enjoyment over perfection, couples can create a memorable and authentic celebration of love.
