Pulse

Celebrating Valentine’s Day at the workplace

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an open envelope sits on a teal blue background with red hearts spilling out of it

Valentine’s Day is more than just romantic love, cards and flowers. It’s that extra special time of year where you can show appreciation and gratitude to anyone in your life.

“We spend most of our waking hours during the week at our workplace,” says Agatha Parks-Savage, Ed.D., RN, Associate Dean of Graduate Medical Education and professor of Family and Community Medicine at Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences EVMS Medical Group at Old Dominion University, “so it would make sense to spread this joy to people at work.”

Dr. Parks-Savage suggests these simple yet meaningful ideas for sharing your appreciation with coworkers this Valentine’s Day:

  • Send note of thanks to someone who has helped you through a tough project. You can make this extra special by writing this on a note card versus send an email.
  • Think about those unsung heroes at the workplace who rarely receive the kudos they deserve. A little token of appreciation goes a long way.
  • Let people know how valuable they are and how their contributions make a difference. Specifically share what the contribution was and the impact it made to the team.
  • Create a self-care goodie bag for someone who needs a reminder that their well-being comes first.
  • Send a fun selfie or short video clip of you expressing your gratitude.
  • Valentine’s Day this year is on a Friday and who doesn’t like a workplace party at the end of the week? Consider having a potluck where volunteers share their favorite fun dishes!

Agatha Parks-Savage, Ed.D., LPC, RN, is a Licensed Professional Counselor, professor of Family and Community Medicine and Associate Dean and Associate Designated Institutional Official of Graduate Medical Education. She is also a Certified Executive, Physician & Life Coach and Certified Trainer, Crucial Conversations® for Mastering Dialogue.