Valentine’s Day is the day for flowers, chocolates and over the top gestures. Celebrating romantic love has been in existence since ancient Roman days in one form or the other. It started as a wild, fertility focused festival in ancient Rome, followed by a day dedicated to flirtations in the Middle Ages, named after a martyred saint in the 2nd century. By the early 1900s, Hallmark took over and blossomed the day into a commercial enterprise with its cards. Flowers, chocolates and fancy dinners became associated with the day. 
 

Now in the 21st century, Valentine’s Day continue to evolve. The holiday has undergone a metamorphosis, transforming from a quiet celebration of intimacy to a spectacle broadcast across screens. Social media has added a new layer, with couples documenting their celebrations for the world to see. So, how do we navigate the tangled web of love and likes on Valentine's Day 2024?
 

Social media can put a lot of pressure on couples. Instagram is full of red and pink stories – of large bouquets of roses, fancy dinners in exotic locations, and partners surprising each other in the most expensive and elaborate way. It paints a rosy picture of wonderful Valentine’s Day celebrations of couples all over the world. While it is wonderful to share our celebrations, watching these perfect stories sets up unrealistic expectations. This curated perfection can breed jealousy and comparison. Remember that what happens behind the filters may be far from reality. Don’t let the pressure to match up to Instagram standards overshadow genuine celebrations of love.

Do keep in mind that different people show love in different ways. While some might do dinner and gift, others might give a leg massage, and still others might just have a long conversation. Then there could be some (like the spouse of the author of this article) who might see Valentine’s Day as a capitalist invention and refuse to partake in it in any form. What is important is that you have clarity about each other’s expectations and you accept and appreciate love expressed in all its forms. 
 

Instagram on Valentine’s Day can be tough for single people. Scrolling through a sea of red and pink can cause pain and loneliness or it can empower us to celebrate self love and friendships. It is important to keep in mind that our worth is not defined by our relationship status. 
 

Valentine’s Day is a marketer's dream with targeted ads for everything from cookie hearts to diamond rings. While expressing affection through gifts is one way to go, don’t fall victim to the consumeristic frenzy. A homemade meal and quality time can be a good gifts too.
 

While it is nice to share celebrations on social media, keep in mind friends and family for whom this day might be difficult. Single, recently bereaved or recently broken up friends and family could be struggling. Reach out and provide support for these people. Also make sure that your eagerness to share your celebrations with the world is not coming in the way of the actual quality time with each other.