Valentine’s Day, often celebrated as a day of love and romance, can sometimes be a challenging time for those who are single. However, being single on Valentine’s Day doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy this special day in your own unique way. In this article, we’ll explore some practical tips and creative ideas to help you navigate Valentine’s Day with joy and self-love, ensuring that it’s a day of celebration rather than solitude.
Alone on February 14th? Follow these steps to make the best of the holiday
With all of the pressure Valentine’s Day puts on couples, some might argue (including this writer) that you’re actually better off as a single person on this stress-inducing Hallmark holiday. Sure, planning the perfect romantic evening for a loved one can provide a wonderful shared experience… that is, if you can actually pull it off. Don’t envy the committed folk – instead, embrace your freedom from stress and unrealistic expectations, and live up this Valentine’s Day as a single person with the following tips:
Take Advantage
Remember, first and foremost, that you’re not alone. There are literally hundreds of millions of single adults out there living through the same holiday hell that you are. In fact, singles now outnumber married people in the US! Use this statistic to your advantage. The odds of you picking up a down-in-the-dumps hot guy or girl today have skyrocketed. Seize the day, and swipe right on Tinder until your finger falls off.
Band Together
If you’re recently out of a relationship, or simply just not feeling up to the “V-Day Pick-Up Challenge”, text your single friends. Make plans to enjoy a movie, sporting event, or concert. You can even throw a party open to both singles and couples (remember, they’re not lepers – they’re just in love). However, in making plans with your pals, avoid eating out at any restaurants – you won’t want to deal with the chaos.
Make the World Your Valentine
It may sound like nothing more than the lesson learned in a bad Ashton Kutcher rom-com, but by being sweet to strangers all day, you’re guaranteed to eventually find yourself in a fantastic mood.
Write a thank-you note to your superintendent. Tip the Starbucks lady an extra $2. Not only will karma come back around to you, doing nice things will make you feel great.
Cash In
Guess who gets to pick out all the half-priced chocolate at CVS they want tomorrow? That’s right: YOU DO! Valentine’s Day is only 24 hours, but the sales on February 14th-themed foods, apparel, and miscellaneous goods last for days after the holiday. And while couples are busy making out and being all “in love“, you’ve got the insight (and the time) to take advantage of some great deals.
Don’t Get Desperate
Unless you’re truly in it for the long haul, don’t ever commit to adopting an animal no matter how cute and furry it may be. Don’t drunk dial an ex- (or worse, a former one-night-stand). Don’t rant on Twitter about how Valentine’s Day is for “pathetic chumps”. (Good luck explaining this to your future partner when he or she eventually scrolls through your history.) Simply put: don’t feel sorry for yourself! Instead…
Be Grateful For A Stress-Free Day
Ultimately, you should be happy that you don’t have to deal with buying overpriced flowers or planning dinner at an understaffed restaurant. You’ve got your whole life to write love poems on beautiful $6 greeting cards for your husband or wife someday – for now, enjoy your days of freedom! Pick up some cold beers or mix some margaritas with your pals, and eat Chinese takeout ’til you feel like you could bust. The best part: no one’s gonna care if you fart.
