10 Tokens of Affection

Did you know that Valentine's Day is the only holiday dedicated to love in the entire calendar?

One of the many meaningful lessons I learned was the importance of maintaining happy relationships with the people I love and care about. There is nothing like being in a great relationship. There is nothing like being seen and known by the one you love.

Medical studies show that people in better relationships live longer, healthier lives! The great teacher Brian Tracy says "85% of an individual's happiness comes from happy involvement with other people."

"We come to love not by finding a perfect person, but by learning to see an imperfect person perfectly." -- Anonymous

5 Tokens of Affection for Singles

1. Make a date with someone you would like to have a date with. Put the date on your calendar now, and then go ask them. What do you have to lose?

2.Rent your favorite movie or buy a new book, whatever makes you feel special and cherished. Make this night a night for you to think your thoughts and dream your dreams.

3.Carry a pocketful of chocolate kisses. Pass them out as you let the recipient know that you appreciate them.

4.If you've been invited to a Valentine's Day party, definitely consider going. There's a pretty good chance that you'll meet other singles to spend time with.

5.Send yourself a Valentine. Tell yourself how much you love and appreciate who you are and who you are becoming. Celebrate the glorious person you are in your own right - and watch how this positive energy begins to draw exciting new people into your life!
5 Tokens of Affection for Couples

1.Make a relationship journal. In a notebook, jot down everything you enjoy together. Keep notes of things that you have celebrated together, restaurants you've enjoyed, a list of videos that you want to see together, places you want to go together.

2.Get tickets to an event that your mate has mentioned in passing. Hide them under his/her pillow or next to the morning cup of coffee as a surprise.

3.Plant a tree through an urban reforestation project or in a nearby park, and dedicate it to your partner. Pack a picnic and head to the tree together to reveal your gift. It is a beautiful metaphor for a growing relationship.

4.If you don't already know, do a little detective work and find out what your sweetie's favorite children's book is. Track it down and present it at a time when he/she may be weary from the pressures of being an adult.

5.If the weather isn't too bad take a stroll. If it is cold, bundle up and snuggle as you walk. You can always stop at a cafe and share a hot chocolate.

It's easy to get overwhelmed with the responsibilities of life or work, and neglecting those you love, or neglect giving time to building relationships. Actions speak louder than words. It's important to reflect on the message you are sending those around you about their place in your life.