Valentine’s Day just isn’t what it used to be. Or rather, it isn’t what it should be. NISHA JHANGHIANI on 14 must not dos on 14th February to ensure escape from an often disappointing yearly affair.

	The art of gift receiving is to show delight at the thoughtfulness of the present. So chuck your ‘get-me-list’ this year and let your true love surprise you with his choice of goodie. If you’re lucky, there will be an exchange offer involved.
	Fixing your marriage date for 14th February. Incredibly passé. And you lose out on one extra gift every year.
	Breaking up on this day isn’t allowed either. It’s just too mean.
	Arguing about your plans for the evening. Quarrels kill romance. Agree beforehand that you will be the sole decider.
	Drop the sulks if he can’t make it for the date on time. Go drinking with your girlie pals and flirt with the cute bartender instead.
	Dump the hints for roses-chocolates-champagne, etc. Doesn’t a limited edition Chloe tote hold more meaning for you? If he loves you, he’ll know.
	Email cards are too tacky. A personalised note will be a refreshing change, considering the last time you wrote to him was in 1980.
	Forget the designer pen or the limited edition tie. Get him a his-and-hers gold credit card so that you both can shop for you.
	Accepting teddy bears-unless you’re under 15. In which case, you’re still too young for these tips.
	Remember the episode in Friends, when Chandler gifts Monica a ‘love tape’ given to him by Janice? Gentlemen, once and for all, recycling gifts is strictly not allowed.
	Baking, or cooking, a special feast for your man is a no-no. Unless you’re a Cordon Bleu degree holder. Order out instead and watch him sigh in relief.
	Zooming off to Lonavala for a romantic getaway? Nowadays, nothing short of Bali will do.
	Actually, this whole gift business itself is so materialistic. This day should be about feelings and togetherness only. (Yeah, right! But again, if he loves you he’ll know better.)
	Celebrating Valentine’s Day only on Valentine’s Day? Every day should be a day of love and sharing. And a day of candlelit dinners, diamond solitaires, et al!