7 Ways to Show Love All Year Round

With February 14th fast approaching, you find that there are two types of people: those who love Valentine's Day and those who hate it. Even when I was single, I always had a certain fondness for it. Maybe it's the gooey romantic in me or the fact that I'm obsessed with anything pink and red, but every year I would love checking out all the silly cards and teddy bears that would accumulate in shops around this time of year. Not to mention discount chocolate on February 15th!

But, I'm well aware of how commercialised it is. The idea that you show your partner love on one day of the year and then your quota is basically filled is so ridiculous. So I thought I'd put together a little post sharing some ways to share love all year round, not just with your partner but with anyone in your life who means a lot to you and even strangers.

I think some of these are so simple but we can so easily forget to do them, including myself! So, without further ado, here are 7 ways to show love all year round.

1. Do more random acts of kindness.

My parents are perfect examples of people who consistently do random acts of kindness for strangers, even if it's something little. A couple of months ago we were sat in a restaurant and my dad paid for three elderly ladies' lunch. Of course, this is quite a big thing, but even just giving a spare discount voucher to a stranger in the queue at the supermarket, or paying for somebody's coffee. You never know who's day you could make.

2. Support your loved ones' goals.

Whatever the goals of your loved ones may be, it's always wonderful to show that you care and support them, however you can. If they're running an event for charity donate to the cause, and if you can't really afford it then share their page to others who may be able to. The same goes for any kind of goal or dream. If there's anyway you can support it, no matter how small, it goes a long way.

3. Give more smiles.

I'm a big fan of smiling at people. Maybe not randomly as I walk past (because we know that can be a little bit weird), but smiling at retail workers or waitresses. Even give a smile to the grumpiest people because you don't know what's going on behind the scenes. And even if they don't appreciate your gorgeous grin then at least you'll know that you gave them something wonderful, rather than something negative.

4. Listen.

Just listening to your partner, friend or family member can help them. Even if you don't have any advice or response you will have given them an ear. And sometimes that's all they need.

5. Be there for people.

This one kind of goes hand in hand with number 4, but letting someone know that you're there for them and truly meaning it can make someone feel less alone. If you see someone online having a rough time reach out to them. If your partner has had the worst day then make sure you're there to give them all the affection they need.

6. Remember the little things.

I'm literally the most forgetful person on the planet. I mean, Neville Longbottom levels of forgetfulness. But it's so important to remember the little things about someone. I actually keep lists on my phone about people so when they mention that they like something I'll take note of it for later. Just remembering the little things can show someone how much you love them.

7. Tell someone you love them.

Seems pretty obvious, right? Never underestimate how much those three little words can impact someone's life <3