A new year often brings a sense of hope. It encourages us to start fresh and try to become better versions of ourselves, which is why people say, “New Year, new me.” Not long after January ends, another familiar moment shows up: Valentine’s Day.
February 14th is usually known for flowers, candy, and maybe a nice dinner — a simple way to show love to a spouse or partner. But not everyone enjoys Valentine’s Day. Some people have had bad experiences, lost love, or are going through a time of being single. For them, the day doesn’t feel as cheerful as the cards and commercials make it seem.
But what if this season of love could be something more? What if Valentine’s Day could be a chance to strengthen all kinds of relationships — both inside and outside your home — and even boost your own well‑being through one simple, intentional gesture?
Happiness can feel hard to find these days. Busy schedules, work pressures, kids’ activities, and the quiet worries of everyday life can pull us in many directions. But sometimes, making life better doesn’t require a big change — just a small shift in how we think.
Picture improving the mood and connection in your home simply by asking this question once a month:
“What has brought you joy or happiness in the past month?”
Write the question at the top of a page. Leave plenty of space beneath it. Complete it for yourself and if applicable, invite someone you love – your spouse, your children, or anyone else close to you – to reflect and write down the moments, experiences, or connections that brought them joy. You could even ask this question to anyone you want to build a closer connection with. When finished, share the results.
Then comes the heart of the challenge. Take time to read each thought on the list. Notice what matters most to you and those you love. Look for ways – big or small – to recreate or reimagine those joyful moments in the month ahead. Maybe it’s as simple as shared time, meaningful conversation, or a familiar activity done with intention. The beauty of this exercise lies in its simplicity, but its impact can be profound.
Why does it matter? Because when you act on what brings joy to you and your loved ones, you send a powerful message: You matter. Your happiness matters. I see you, and I am invested in your joy. When every family member in your home participates, something remarkable happens. The home becomes a place not just of routine, but of connection. Joy multiplies when it is noticed, shared, and nurtured.
The things we choose to invest in become increasingly valuable. By investing in ourselves and one another – through attention, care, and intention – you lay a foundation of joy and emotional safety that can support your family for years to come. Over time, these small, consistent acts help build a home that feels unshakeable – a place of belonging, love, and genuine connection. A place where the heart truly rests.
Married, single, widowed, engaged, or going through a difficult time, this simple intentional act, practiced regularly, can have a positive impact on any relationship in your life.
We can help.
If you would like support in creating a page for this activity, or if you would like to take a ready-made copy home with you, please contact Matthew Cauble, Behavioral Health Care Manager for the St Louis Carpenters Wellness Center at 314.955.2173. You do not have to do this journey alone – sometimes all it takes is a simple question to bring forth something beautiful.
In Kansas City, contact Carpenters Wellness Center-Kansas City at 816.884.9355 to make an in-person or virtual appointment with Jesse Sieve, Behavioral Health Specialist.
If you want to talk to a counselor about anything you’re going through, call Mercy’s MAP at 800.413.8008 (Option #2). MAP offers free, private, short-term counseling for you and anyone who lives in your home.
