How to be Romantic
Guys — Are You Listening?

Yes, it's February, the month containing the most anticipated romantic day of the year, or the most dreaded, depending on who you ask. If you're a guy, and you're dreading it, we've done a little research on your behalf. We asked a number of women what they consider to be the romantic gestures to make this Valentine's Day and received some surprising replies. Some were the usual, of course: Flowers and dinner and maybe a night out. But the most common, overwhelming response was a bit different. Are you ready?

Listen.

Seriously, that was the suggestion. Yes, flowers are great, but only if a woman likes flowers. If she doesn't, even the most expensive bouquet of red roses in the world will come across as trite and predictable. A nice dinner is lovely, as long as you don't take your vegetarian date to a steakhouse. Want to impress with some fancy jewelry? Make sure she doesn't have any metallic allergies that will turn her skin green. See where this is going? Women find men who listen to them, who really pay attention to their likes and dislikes, are the most romantic men of all.

"I love walking, so last year my husband arranged for dinner and a movie all within walking distance of our house," says Diane. "It was a fun, romantic evening, plus I got some exercise, which is perfect in my books."

So, if you're thinking you need to spend lots of money to impress your romantic interest, you're wrong. Simply by paying attention, actually listening when she speaks, can ignite all sorts of ideas for creative — and wallet-friendly — date ideas.

"I once mentioned to my boyfriend in passing, very casually, that I was interested in learning about astronomy," says Theresa. "He surprised me by taking me out to watch a meteor shower one evening. It was the most romantic thing anyone had ever done for me. I hadn't even realized he'd heard me say it!"

Of course, some guys already know about this method of romance, and they know it works. "My wife and I have been married for 25 years," says Randy, "and I've gotten a lot better at paying attention to the little things. She's been looking for her favourite children's book for as long as I've known her. I managed to track it down online and plan on giving it to her this Valentine's Day. I think it will be the best present I've ever given her, even better than the diamond ring on our anniversary!"

So, guys, there you go — there's hope for you yet. No need to stress about finding the "perfect romantic" gift this year. If you've been paying attention, you'll know exactly what she likes, and she'll appreciate the very fact that you love her enough to know.

Want to impress with some fancy jewelry? Make sure she doesn't have any metallic allergies....