John Gray’s 1992 bestselling book, Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus, was based on the premise that men and women live on different planets when it comes to relationships.

Gray has now published a sequel, Why Mars And Venus Collide, which attempts to show how to improve relationships by understanding how men and women cope with life and stress.

Here are six points from the book on how to make your man a better partner.

1. Trust him
Show a positive belief in his abilities and intentions and he will become a more caring and attentive partner.

2. Acceptance
Don’t try to improve him, accept him as he is. When a man feels accepted it is much easier to listen and give you the understanding you need.

3. Appreciation
When a man feels his efforts are appreciated he is motivated to respect his partner more.

4. Admiration
When a man feels his unique characteristics, like sense of humor and strength, are admired, he will feel secure enough to devote himself to you.

5. Approval
An approving attitude recognizes the good behind what a man does. When he receives approval, it becomes easier for him to accept a woman’s feelings and point of view.

6. Encouragement
A woman’s encouragement gives hope and courage to a man by expressing confidence in his abilities and character. This motivates him to give her the loving reassurance she needs.

You too can bring out your man’s inner Romeo, writes John Gray. Some good pointers for St. Valentine’s Day.

The big heart-shaped day is approaching and you still haven’t decied on the perfect gift for your Valentine.

No need to panic, you can still find the gift that says “I love you” even if you don’t have time to search the malls and specialty stores. Here are some ideas for gifts you can order now in time for Valentine’s Day without leaving your chair.

Hershey’s offers a personalized gift that satisfies both the card and the chocolate requirements - and satisfies a sweet tooth as well. Their Perfect Match Chocolate Card let’s you write your own message (up to 24 letters/spaces)and is a solid 2lb of chocolate. Place your order by noon on February 13 for guaranteed Valentine’s Day delivery.

There’s no one who knows your love the way you do, so don’t rely on standard flower arrangements you order by phone. Check out Virtual Flowers for dozens of unique floral arrangements. Imagine her delight when this cuddly plush bear arrives with an armful of lush roses.

Guys, you know she’s expecting flowers, they’re the most traditional gift on Valentine’s Day next to chocolates. You can seek the advice of your florist on the best arrangement or be a little creative in choosing a bouquet.

Long-stemmed red roses are the most traditional Valentine flower, but roses come in many gorgeous shades, each holding special meaning. Check out the meanings of roses and choose a panopoly of colors that stand for all the many facets of your relationship. You can include a card that explains the meaning of each rose and how it applies to your relationship.

Tell her that the red rose symbolizes your passion, yellow is for the underlying friendship that makes your relationship strong, pink is her elegance and grace etc.

Choosing the bouquet to represent what your relationship means to you will say much more to her than if you plunk down some cash for the standard, unimaginative gift.

For the meanings of the variety of roses:
A Rose By Any Other Color