Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. People are in love (or at least acting like it) and want to show their love by being sweet and giving gifts. Let’s be honest, everybody loves gifts! But I know I also like surprises. Where is the surprise in a heart-shaped box of chocolates and a dozen roses? And where is the thought put into such a cliche gift? What can you gain from flowers and chocolate other than a mess to clean up next week and a few extra unwanted pounds? Why don’t we break the “tradition” and give something that your loved one can benefit from – in a good way – this Valentine’s Day? 

I searched and searched and have come up with a few original, useful gifts you can get for the love of your life that shows they mean more than a 3-second run into the closest store you could find.

A Book

Nothing beats a book. Get one that fits what your beau wants at the moment. Are they trying to lose weight? Get a promotion? Learn to sew? There are books for everything. And if he/she is content with life, there are millions of fictional books in every genre imaginable. You can’t go wrong.

Prompt Cards

Prompt cards are great. I love them! You can leave someone a note of inspiration, love, confidence, resilience, or anything else you want when you think they might need it most. These cards are great for putting in a lunch or on a pillow. You could even use a whole pack for Valentine’s Day and place them all over so your loved one gets sweet messages all day long when they least expect it. And if you’re sentimental like me, these messages can be kept as keepsakes. 

A Planner

I don’t know about you, but I can’t function without 3 or 4 reminders or alarms to keep me on track and not missing appointments or meetings. Planners save my life! And they can promote organization and timeliness. If your biggest fan is late all the time, or forgetful, think about a personalized planner as a Valentine’s day gift. It beats flowers that might be wilted before you even give them off.

I know these items aren’t a new puppy, but these are useful things that anyone can enjoy. Help your boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, or wife grow at a personal level. That is a gift full of meaning and care.