Gen Z Redefines Love and Valentine's Day: Beyond Romance, Commercialism

• Gen Z views love as everyday, multidirectional, and self-authored, extending beyond traditional romance to include friendships, family, and self-love.
• The focus shifts from grand, performative gestures to genuine, simple expressions like quality time, checking in, and sharing everyday moments.
• Gen Z is aware of commercialized emotions, prioritizing experiences, time, and genuine effort over expensive gifts and productized celebrations.
• Being single is no longer seen as a waiting room; individual identity, career, and mental health take priority, reducing Valentine's Day pressure.
• Digital culture, including memes and satire, allows Gen Z to engage with Valentine's Day on their own terms, embracing humor and irony.