Happy Valentine’s Day! Whether this is your first with your significant other or your 50th, there are always new ways to celebrate. Although Americans will spend about $27.4 billion this Valentine’s Day[1], there’s no reason why a great Valentine’s Day activity can’t be free. Here are 4 Valentine’s Day Tips for you this year.

Celebrate on Another Day if the 14th Doesn’t Work

Sometimes life gets in the way of February 14th. But, this shouldn’t be a reason to forgo celebrating. If you and your loved one can’t be together or don’t have time to do something special on Valentine’s Day, take a rain check and plan something for another day. Picking a day when you have enough time to spend together without being rushed can be more important than celebrating on the 14th.

Reminisce

On Valentine’s Day – and hopefully at least a few other days of the year – you can take a break from discussing household chores, bills, and appointments, and think back to important memories. Taking the time to remember holidays, trips, moving into your home, or even your first date with your spouse can mean remembering forgotten details and focusing on your relationship, as well as help keep your brain sharp in retirement. According to one study, reliving memories can actually improve the way that couples communicate in general.[2]

Talk About the Future

Hopefully not all the good times are in the past – also take the time to talk about exciting things in the future. Maybe you’d like to take a dream vacation together, maybe you’re looking forward to a grandchild, or maybe you’re interested in pursuing a new activity together in retirement. There’s always something to look forward to, even if it’s something small.

Don’t Forget About Your Friends and Family

Valentine’s Day is typically thought of as a holiday for couples to celebrate, but you can also show appreciation and love for other people in your life. Whether it’s getting a card or resolving to make plans with a friend you haven’t seen in a while, there are ways to celebrate the special people in your life.

At Madrona Financial Services, we understand that our clients often aren’t just individuals, they may be spouses, parents, and caregivers. Everyone’s retirement goals and financial planning needs are different, and so we don’t suggest a one-size-fits-all approach. You can sign up for a no cost, no obligation financial reviews so that we can meet you and learn what you’re looking for from a financial plan.