You've made it through the holidays without any major catastrophes. You went through the agony of buying her the perfect gift comforted by the fact that you had 365 days until you had to do it all over again. If only you were right. Just when you started to settle down from the holiday havoc you're greeted with the promise of a new reason to shop for her. Valentine's Day. For many, this holiday of hearts leads to clammy hands and anxiety ridden shopping trips.

While a sweater, a new gadget, and some jewelry was perfect for Christmas, your Valentine's day gift to her takes far more thought. Fortunately, or unfortunately, depending on your view, Valentine's day often comes down to one gift and a grand plan. Here are some tips to help you make it through this festival of love without losing your's.

• What She Likes: Whether it's lingerie or flowers your goal is to please her which means put aside what you like and find what you know she will. This is especially true for lingerie related gifts. While you may really dig that black g string, if she's a pretty in pink, classy gal stick with something along those lines. The same is true for jewelry. Maybe she loves cute little diamond earrings that are classy yet conservative but you love long dangling earrings. Choose the ones she prefers. It shows you know and respect her.

• What is Significant: There are several gifts that men tend to give to their lover's that really have no meaning. A box of mixed chocolates, a dozen roses, and a romantic dinner at a classy restaurant are Valentine's Day staples, but what do they mean to her? In many cases, these gifts can seem contrived and are often the easy way out. If you're really trying to impress her this year choose of gifts that have significant value. Think about important or significant moments in your relationship Maybe you met at a certain bar or on your first date you saw a particular movie. Use positives from your relationship to inspire your valentine's day gift.

• Your Level of Commitment: A big deciding factor in what you buy her should be how committed you are to each other. If your relationship is new or you aren't' really committed to her then you can definitely opt for the easy candy or flowers. These show you thought of her but that you're not quite ready to take the relationship plunge. If you're in a serious relationship, flowers are fine but they better be accompanied by something even better. If you have been together for awhile you definitely want to show your commitment by choosing a gift she'll be impressed with. Clothing, lingerie, and home made gifts are perfect for long term relationships. Remember, this really is a woman's holiday and she will undoubtedly take your gift and analyze it's meaning. Don't let her get the wrong idea and assume more or less about your commitment to her.

Valentines day gifts aren't just about what's inside the box, they are also about how you act. The perfect present could be spoiled by less than admirable actions. While you really should be giving her your undivided attention all year round, valentine's day is one day you must. Be the romantic guy every girl dreams of and treat her like a princess for this special holiday. Open car doors, pull out chairs, hold doors, and if it's raining drop her off in front. Cater to her every need and she'll be more than happy you're her Valentine.