It’s coming, again! That dreaded romantic made-up holiday that I won’t be celebrating for the 10th year in a row. That’s right. That’s how long I’ve been single, and I consider myself an expert when it comes to Valentine’s Day. It’s just another day. A day I don’t have to spend money unnecessarily or be racking my brain about a creative gift idea. Valentine’s day is just a highly commercialized day, and in my opinion, silly. I mean really — how special do you feel when millions of other people are getting the same flowers and the same box of chocolate as you? When every other couple is having an over priced dinner at a packed restaurant?
The only reason for this is that every retailer has made it a point to remind everyone that they owe their partner a gift. These presents and dinner dates aren’t genuine. All of your friends in relationships are getting flowers because of the pressure stores, and society as a whole, placed on couples to purchase each other something on Valentine’s Day.
Retailers focus so much on romantic couples, but you don’t have to. In other countries, this Day is known as “Love and Friendship Day.” I really like this because it emphasizes the friendship aspect, and it takes away from the pressure of having to be in a committed relationship. So stop feeling bad about being single and simply make it about the people you care about, or you can make it about the most important person in your life —You! Here are five things you can do to once again survive on Valentine’s Day.
Turn off the sappy movies, get up off the couch, and go outside.
It will be really difficult to avoid feeling lonely while you are alone at home. Keep yourself occupied by paying a visit to a friend, going for a walk, or going out to eat—yes alone if you must! If you haven’t done it before, go to a low-key restaurant that isn’t overrun with couples and treat yourself to a delicious dinner.
Buy yourself a gift.
It doesn’t have to be a diamond necklace, but it should be something you’ve been meaning to get. What about that massage you’ve been putting off for a while now? Perhaps you should have your nails done. Even something as easy as getting my nails done makes me feel amazing and boosts my confidence!
Stay off social media and turn off the news.
Take a break from the flood of Valentine’s Day advertising, posts, and everything else. Start a book you’ve been meaning to read instead or simply enjoy some time to yourself with no distractions. The constant reminder of lovey-dovey couples, Valentine’s Day plans, and flowers that no one will send you will only add to your loneliness and anxiety.
Talk to someone.
Another single buddy who can offer support or a family member who knows the Valentine’s Day stress. Consider attending a singles event in your area or celebrating the day before, on Galentine’s Day. This is also a made up, unofficial holiday. But hey if couples get to do it, so can we. Galentine’s is on Sunday February 13th, which is the day before Valentine’s Day. You can even be ahead of the love game by celebrating with your best gals this Sunday! Being in the company of other girlfriends will make you feel more at ease and realize you are not alone. Go get mani-pedis, dinner, or throw your own Super Bowl Party—no boys allowed. Or simply enjoy each other’s company, talk and let each other know how special you all are.
Write a Valentine’s Day card to yourself.
You knew this one was coming! Yes, you should write yourself a love letter. Include everything you love about yourself, as well as what makes you unique. Don’t hold back because this letter is only for you. Write down activities you enjoy doing on your own as well as things you could do more of. What makes you laugh, smile, or even cry? Remember to write as if you were writing to a good friend.
So, how will you survive Valentine’s Day? Do you enjoy doing something special for yourself on February 14th? If so, I’d love to hear about it. Please share your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to follow on social media. Instagram and Facebook
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