• Ideas
  • Psychology

5 Research-Based Tips on How to Pick the Best Valentine’s Day Gift Ever

2 minute read
Ideas
Barker is the author of Barking Up The Wrong Tree

  • Research says that the most romantic gifts are expensive yet worthless. In fact, science knows a number of things about what makes a good gift.
  • Afraid of how much Valentine’s Day is going to cost you? Relax. Giving really is better than receiving and studies show money CAN buy happiness.
  • There’s an easy trick for getting that special someone a gift they’ll really like: stop being so damn creative and think about what makes people feel guilty. Wanna go even further and be doubly sure they’ll like that present? Wrap it.
  • Here are 5 easy, scientifically proven tips for making shopping easier.
  • Did you receive a lousy gift for Valentine’s Day? Here are pro tips on how to act like you’re not horribly disappointed. And frankly, getting women lousy gifts on V Day might be a smart idea.
  • This piece originally appeared on Barking Up the Wrong Tree.

    Join over 165,000 readers and get a free weekly update via email here.

    Related posts:

    How To Be A Good Kisser – 10 Tips From Scientific Research

    Recipe For A Happy Marriage: The 7 Scientific Secrets

    10 ways science explains why James Bond is so irresistible to women

    More Must-Reads from TIME

    Contact us at letters@time.com

    TIME Ideas hosts the world's leading voices, providing commentary on events in news, society, and culture. We welcome outside contributions. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of TIME editors.