Show Your Love Without Spending Any Money

Five things you can do this Valentine's Day

Today is Valentine’s Day, and in today’s consumer culture there seems to be a common misconception that love can only be shown through pricey chocolates, blingy baubles or elaborate floral arrangements. But there are simpler ways to show your love that don’t require any money but can mean just as much. Here are five ways you can show your love this Valentine’s Day without spending a dime:

Update your beneficiaries. Thinking about post-mortem planning can be a bit of a morbid prospect on the year’s most romantic holiday, but what better way to show someone you love them than to ensure they’ll be taken care of if something happens to you? You want to make sure that your life insurance, 401(k) and even your car are in the name of the correct beneficiary so that these assets can pass cleanly to your loved ones.
Be honest. Honesty is always the best policy, and it’s no different when it comes to finances. Whether it’s massive credit card debt, a child-support payment or some other deep dark financial secret you’d like to keep hidden – be honest. Love is fully divulging to your partner what they’ll be stepping into and if they truly love you they’ll be willing to help you through it, so neither of you will be going through it alone.
Open a savings account for your child. Many parents give their children gifts on Valentine’s Day, but instead of a new toy or the latest electronic gadget, why not set them up for future financial success? Help your child open a savings account and begin teaching them good financial habits so that when the time comes to release them out into the world they’ll be educated, prepared and ready to face whatever money issues come their way.
Save for splurges. There’s nothing wrong with a little treat now and then – as long as you have the means to afford it. Adding a splurge to your budget means your finances won’t take a hit, and these special treats will mean more to you and your loved ones since they don’t happen all the time.
Give the gift of time. Your time is the most inexpensive gift – and often times it can mean the most. Your loved ones don’t care about expensive gifts or extravagant outings, they just want to spend time with you. Take your kids to the park, go for a walk with your spouse and talk about your day, call your parents or drop by for a visit so they know you’re thinking about them - they’ll appreciate the time they’re spending with you more than they would any gift or card.

You don’t need money to show someone you love them. Physical gifts can be nice, but it’s the gifts of time and true caring that your loved ones will remember for years to come. Show someone you love them today!