While some people might cringe at the thought of Valentine's Day, I've recently been rethinking the stereotypical lovey-dovey holiday in a more positive light. I'll be the first to admit I'm one of the few individuals who always look forward to Valentine's Day.

Although it is another excuse to go a little overboard on trying to show my significant other how much I love them, this year I'm taking it as an opportunity to show all of my loved ones how much they mean to me.

When I was little, my parents would always make sure to give me a Valentine's Day gift. No matter if it was a teddy bear, a box of chocolates, or some other little trinket, it made me feel important and loved. In elementary school, I'm sure that almost everyone filled out the little paper Valentine cards and dropped them into everyone's decorated mailbox.

When I moved on to high school, my friends and I would go on group dates and celebrate the holiday because it was a chance to have a fun memory. Now that I'm in my second year of college I figured I would give back, and encourage all of my friends to do the same thing.

Our parents, siblings, and close friends share unconditional love with us every day of the year. So if you're one of the people that look at Valentine's Day as cheesy and over-rated, I'm challenging you to change your mindset.

There's no better feeling than being appreciated, and everyone loves to be reminded that they are. Here are a couple ideas of ways you can change up the typical idea of Valentine's Day and make an impact on the people special to you.

1. Get a group of friends together, dress up, and go have fun.

I always have the most fun, and make the most memories when my friends and I dress up super cute and go out to a new restaurant.

2. Make your family dinner.

Family dinners where everyone sits around the table together is something that doesn't happen often these days. Try making your family an old favorite dinner so everyone can have a nice night, just like old times.

3. Have a spa day with your best friends.

Valentine's day happens right around midterms. Nothing goes better with midterms than face masks and a new manicure.

4. Write heart felt letters to friends you haven't heard from in a while.

While sending a quick text is convenient, I've always loved getting paper mail. It's more intimate and you can hold on to it forever. Try writing a letter to someone you miss this Valentine's Day.

5. Take your furry friend on a date.

I try to spoil my dog as much as I can, but Valentine's Day is the perfect excuse to take her out to the park and give her some of her favorite snacks. Maybe treat your pet to a Starbucks Puppuccino this February.

6. Do a random act of kindness.

Share the love and do something nice for someone. Not only will it make their day, but it will make you feel great too!

7. Bring your boss/coworkers a sweet treat.

Nobody likes to work on holidays, no matter how big or small they are. Start everyone's day off right with some donuts and coffee.