This Valentine’s Day, Own the Awk!

Valentine’s Day usually comes with big gestures like flowers, chocolate, or fancy dinners... but the strongest relationships aren’t built on one perfect day. They’re built on communication: the honest, sometimes awkward conversations about feelings, boundaries, and sexual health. 

If that makes you nervous, you’re definitely not alone! Talking about relationships and sex can feel intimidating, even with someone you care deeply about. Some people are worried it will ruin the mood. That’s why we love Own the Awk, a free, judgment-free resource from the National Coalition for Sexual Health (NCSH) that helps you navigate the conversations you might be avoiding! We wanted to show them some love this Valentine’s Day and feature some of our favorite things they offer!! 

Why communication matters

Healthy communication makes it possible to express your feelings, needs, and boundaries clearly. And while some of us weren’t taught these skills growing up, the good news is that communication is something you can absolutely learn and practice. 

Start with Own the Awk’s Comms 101!! It breaks communication down into approachable, doable skills (like listening actively, asking questions, and being honest about what you want). 

Some of our favorite reminders from Comms 101: 

• Being clear is kind. Being unclear often leads to frustration or unmet expectations. 

• Communication works best when it’s a two-way street. 

• It’s okay to take your time. You don’t have to say everything at once. 

• Conflict doesn’t mean failure, it’s part of being human and being in relationship. 

How do I make it not awkward?!

One of the hardest parts of communication is knowing how to start. 

Awk Talk Starters provide sample scripts for conversations about sexual health, boundaries, texting expectations, and more. They’re especially helpful if you know what you want to say but can’t quite find the words. Plus, it gives examples of how to naturally say stuff, no robotic or cringey sayings! 

If asking questions is out of your comfort zone, Gimme That Ask turns conversation into a game (it’s really fun). These cards help partners explore everything from values and turn-ons to safer sex and relationship expectations (without it feeling like an interrogation). 

And if seeing examples helps you learn, the AwkLine video series offers quick, relatable videos that show what healthy communication actually looks like. Maybe you’ll learn about safer sex, STI testing, pleasure, consent, or boundaries! 

Valentine’s d(sl)ay

This Valentine’s Day, love and relationships don’t have to look like perfection. They can look like: 

• Asking for what you need #slay 

• Saying no when something doesn’t feel right 

• Checking in with a partner about how things are going 

• Naming your boundaries 

• Getting curious instead of shutting down 

Awkward convos are honestly better sometimes when we admit what they are... a little awkward! As long as you show up honestly, even when it’s uncomfy, you’ll find yourself in a much better place than you started. 

These skills matter!!  Regardless of your relationship status. And they’re definitely worth practicing, not just on Valentine’s Day, but all year long. 

These safer sex and STI pages will give you clear, supportive guidance for starting these conversations in ways that feel respectful and empowering. There’s nothing to sweat! 

Remember, awkward doesn’t mean wrong, it can actually mean something important is happening.