Valentine's Day is rapidly approaching, if you're like me, you've been walking past the cards that have been on the shelf for a month. When you start the laborious task of picking one out, don't sacrifice your personal dignity or devalue yourself for the sake of romance. A healthy relationship is all about mutual appreciation and respect, so steer clear of cards that have these phrases:

1. "I don't deserve you."

Don't buy a card that says, "I don't deserve you," or something of the like. You deserve someone who treats you well. If you really believe this phrase is true, it's not romantic, it's a warning signal that you're not good enough to your partner. You do deserve them.

2. Anything about money.

While it may be a funny joke at the time, jokes about having a lot of money or none of it can linger in a person's mind. That will be what creeps up the next time there is an argument about money, whether it is conscious or not. You know deep down that money isn't a factor in your love for your partner, so don't buy a valentine's day card that has something about money on it.

3. "It's great to have someone to annoy for the rest of my life."

Unless your partner is never self-conscious, don't buy a card that hints that they're annoying. Don't buy one that says you are either. It's definitely unhealthy to be in a place that you're annoyed by your significant other. You should each find enjoyment in doing things for each other, like the laundry or the dishes, and shouldn't be piling responsibilities on one person so that it's a burden. If one of you is annoyed by the other, it's time for a talk.

4. A card with an inaccurate depiction of your relationship.

If you're in a homosexual or interracial relationship, this one is for you. Don't play into the heterocentric and close minded industry that only portrays white heterosexual couples. I often buy cards with animated pictures, or pictures of animals, and sometimes make my own. It's important to acknowledge that your relationship is just as important if you don't fit the mold mainstream media puts out of relationships. Your partner will definitely notice the absence of a photo that doesn't represent them, and will appreciate it.

5. A card that doesn't portray how you act in your relationship.

Don't get a card that says, "I love you," or, "You're my best friend," if that's not the way you feel or act toward your partner.

Buying a card for Valentine's day is all about being thoughtful. Following these five don'ts for Valentine's day cards is a way to simplify the process and make your partner feel special. That's what it's all about, right?