Valentine’s Day, Your Way: Celebrating Love, Friendship, and Connection

Valentine’s Day has long been marketed as a day for grand romantic gestures, candlelit dinners, and heart-shaped chocolates. But love isn’t just about romance—it’s about the connections we share with friends, family, and most importantly, ourselves. Whether you’re celebrating with a partner, friends, or enjoying your own company, this is a time to honour the relationships that bring joy, comfort, and support into your life.

The Evolution of Valentine’s Day: More Than Just Romance

For a lot of people, Valentine’s Day can feel like a lot of pressure—pressure to be in a relationship, to make grand declarations of love, or to follow the script of what a ‘perfect’ Valentine’s should look like. But love is so much more than fancy dinners and roses, and relationships come in many forms.

True connection isn’t about whether you receive gifts—it’s about celebrating the people who make life meaningful. More and more people are choosing to celebrate Valentine’s Day in a way that feels right for them, without worrying about what society says it should be.

When Valentine’s Day Feels Lonely

For many people, including those living with disabilities, Valentine’s Day can bring up feelings of loneliness. Seeing couples celebrating or being reminded of traditional ideas of love can be tough. If you’re feeling this way, you’re not alone, and it’s completely okay to have those feelings.

People with disabilities often face additional barriers to social connection, including physical challenges, communication barriers, online safety concerns and social stigma. This is why platforms like Cliq Connection are so important—they provide a safe and welcoming space where making meaningful connections is possible without fear of exclusion or discrimination.

Instead of focusing on what Valentine’s Day is ‘supposed’ to be, think about what would actually make you happy. Maybe that’s catching up with a friend, spending time in a community that makes you feel welcome, or just giving yourself space to feel however you need to feel.

Self-Love: The Most Important Valentine

If there’s one person you should always show love and kindness to, it’s yourself. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s important. Self-love isn’t just about bubble baths or treating yourself (although those are great!) it’s about knowing your worth, setting boundaries, and doing things that make you happy.

Here are a few simple ways to practice self-love this Valentine’s Day:

• Do something you genuinely enjoy, whether that’s watching your favourite movie, taking a relaxing bath, or spending time outdoors.
• Be as kind to yourself as you are to your friends—give yourself patience, encouragement, and self-compassion.
• Start a small tradition just for you—whether that’s buying yourself flowers or making a playlist of songs that lift your spirits.

The Magic of Mate Dates

Romantic love isn’t the only love worth celebrating! Friendships are some of the most valuable relationships we have, and Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to appreciate the people who stand by us.

Fun ideas for celebrating friendships this Valentine’s Day:

• Coffee catch-ups – Share a laugh and a good chat over a cup of your favourite brew.
• Movie marathons – Whether it’s a rom-com or an action-packed thriller, watching a film with friends is always a great way to bond.
• Beach days or park picnics – Fresh air, good company, and some delicious snacks make for a perfect mate date.
• DIY creative night – Try painting, baking, or crafting something fun together.

This year could be the perfect time to start a new Valentine’s tradition with your friends. Whether it’s an annual brunch, a themed movie night, or a group adventure, creating shared traditions can help bring you closer and give you something fun to look forward to every year.

Strengthening Your Circle of Connection

Strong relationships—whether romantic, platonic, or with family—make a big difference to our mental and emotional wellbeing. Feeling connected to others can help reduce stress, boost happiness, and give us a sense of belonging.

Building and maintaining meaningful relationships isn’t just about one day—it’s about the small, thoughtful things we do all year round to appreciate the people in our lives.

Ways to deepen your relationships:

• Spend quality time together, even if it’s just a quick chat or a catch-up call.
• Show appreciation with a small gesture, like a thoughtful message or a handwritten note.
• Be there for your friends and loved ones the way they’ve been there for you—listen, support, and encourage them.
• Celebrate each other’s wins, big or small!

Final Thoughts

This Valentine’s Day, take the opportunity to celebrate love in all its forms. Whether that means prioritising self-care, strengthening friendships, or simply reaching out to someone who matters to you, remember that love isn’t just about romance—it’s about connection.
Cliq Connection is Australia’s first dating and friendship app designed specifically for NDIS participants. It provides a secure and welcoming space where people can connect, build meaningful relationships, and navigate friendships and dating safely. With thorough identity verification, learning modules on social skills and online safety, and a supportive community, Cliq Connection helps make socialising easier and more inclusive.

If you’re looking for a safe and supportive place to connect, you can subscribe to Cliq Connection through The Chooze Shop. However you choose to spend your Valentine’s Day, know that your relationships—whether with yourself, your friends, or your community—are worth celebrating, today and always.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

If you’re using NDIS funding to buy from The Chooze Shop, please remember that your purchase needs to match your plan goals and support needs. Approval for funding may vary based on your disability type and NDIS plan, and final decisions are made by the NDIS. You can learn more about what the NDIS may fund here. Everyone is welcome to buy directly from our store with personal funds, too!