Valentine’s Day the Single way

Recently, I met up with an old friend to catch up on each other’s lives. During our conversation, we talked about Valentine’s day and what we planned to do. Since she was in a relationship, she already had a good idea on how she wanted to spend it with her boyfriend. Me on the other hand, didn’t really have any plans as I always have viewed Valentine’s day as a “couples’ holiday”. But after our conversation, I started to see Valentine’s day in a new light and wondered to myself. Can single people celebrate Valentine’s day too? I’m not going to lie, sometimes being single is hard. Especially on holidays such as this, where the focus is on romance. But, is this what valentine’s day is truly about? This year I decided to highlight some things that single people can do to enjoy the holiday while not making them look desperate.

1. Valentines Day Cards

Remember when we were kids and we used to pass out Valentine’s cards to each other. It was super fun and a great ego booster. But alas, as we got older this tradition ended and now it seems that Valentine cards are mainly given to our romantic partners. Not for me though, this year I decided to send homemade Valentine cards to friends. It was super fun and a great source of art therapy. My friends enjoyed that cards and the gesture showed them that they were appreciated.

2. Have a night in

All your friends dating or unavailable? NO worries, you can always hang out with yourself. I know that sounded a little depressing but having much needed alone time can be fun and relaxing. You can do what you want without having to compromise with others. For me, I often like to cook myself a fun meal and watch a scary movie. Most people in my life prefer not to watch the horror genre, but when I’m alone I get to watch what I want.

3. Hang out with friends

This is obvious but hanging out with friends is another fun way to spend the holiday. Spending time with friends takes a lot of pressure off you, as there will be less expectations compared to being with a significant other. Its also a great way to showcase that you are not truly alone, as you have relationships in your life. Even if they are not romantic.

4. Chocolate, chocolate, Chocolate

My fourth and final point revolves around a Valentine’s food tradition, Chocolate!!! Traditionally, chocolate is given to romantic partners as a gesture of their love. It has become a staple of any Valentine’s day gift. Even the box shape in which they come in screams ROMANCE. But these boxes can also be a symbol of a love for yourself. I know this sounds cheesy but treating yourself to a nice box of chocolate is a great way to appreciate how great you are. If anyone gives you crap about it, remind them that the best person to love is yourself.

As shown above, Valentine’s day can be for everyone. Not having a romantic partner, does not put you at a disadvantage. It’s all about how you perceive the holiday and want to spend it. If you still think it’s weird to celebrate Valentine’s day, there is no problem in just ignoring the day. To be honest, Valentine’s day isn’t that big of a deal. But there are many benefits to celebrating it being single. With the right mindset, you can turn the holiday into a celebration of yourself.