It’s funny how Valentine’s Day – one day of the year when the world seems to be painted in shades of red and pink, couples profess undying love on social media, and restaurants are fully booked for candlelit dinners – can seem dark, blurry, sad, and overwhelming for many single people.
There would be bouquets, especially now that gift vendors have incorporated ‘money bouquet’ into the menu. There would also be chocolates, flowers, cakes, sweet nothings, cards, chocolates, and all manner of gifts. Yet, some people are not even expecting one of these from their significant other. I understand.
Valentine’s Day, marked annually on February 14, can sometimes trigger feelings of loneliness or self-doubt for those who are single. It may seem like society is screaming at you to find a partner as if being single is some kind of life failure.
But Valentine’s Day does not have to be a day of gloom and doom, instead of seeing it as a day to dread, why not flip the script and turn it into an opportunity for self-love, growth, and meaningful connections because the idea that love can only be celebrated between romantic partners is outdated.
If you’re single and wondering how to navigate this highly romanticised holiday, here are some creative and empowering ways to embrace the day with confidence and joy.
1. Remember, It’s Just One Day
Just breathe, it’s essential to remind yourself that Valentine’s Day is just one day.
I know the hype surrounding the day can make it feel like it’s the most important day of the year, but in reality, it’s just another date on the calendar. After February 14, life will surely go on.
Don’t let the expectations surrounding Valentine’s Day determine your sense of worth or dictate how you feel about yourself. The love and joy you feel on this day can be cultivated every day of the year. It’s a temporary moment, and you have the power to choose how you experience it.
2. Avoid Social Media Pressure
Do not scream ‘awwwn’ on comment sessions and cry ‘God when’ behind closed-doors. Whatever colour of pressure it is you’re looking for on Valentine’s Day, you’ll surely find it on social media.
The posts, stories, and photos of couples celebrating their love can easily make you feel like you’re missing out or not measuring up.
Remember that social media only shows the highlight reel of people’s lives, what you’re not seeing is the whole picture, so it’s essential to resist the temptation to compare your life to what you see online.
If scrolling through social media brings up negative emotions, consider taking a break for the day so you don’t run mad.
Unfollow accounts that make you feel inadequate, or mute posts that might trigger feelings of loneliness, and focus on your own life and the blessings you have instead of getting caught up in someone else’s curated version of happiness.
3. Look For Something To Do
Sometimes, the best way to combat loneliness is by keeping yourself busy, focusing on something meaningful, something that distracts you from the noise, soaking yourself in your job or an activity that would occupy your mind.
Consider spending the day helping at a local charity, a community school, or an animal shelter. By giving back to your community, you’ll not only brighten someone else’s day, but you’ll also experience the joy that comes from making a difference.
Also, acts of kindness, whether big or small, could boost your mood and sense of purpose. You may find that the connections you make with others during your volunteer work are just as meaningful, if not more so, than romantic relationships.
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be about love for one person. It can also be a day to spread kindness, create bonds, and make the world a little bit brighter.
4. Embrace Self-Love
One of the most important steps in surviving Valentine’s Day as a single person is to cultivate a sense of self-love.
Many people mistakenly believe that their worth is defined by their relationship status, but Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to remember that love begins with oneself.
Treat yourself to something special; a relaxing day at home, a self-care routine, or even a solo outing to your favourite place. You don’t need a romantic partner to feel valuable or loved.
Take a moment to appreciate who you are; your talents, strengths, and growth over the years.
Acknowledge the journey you’ve walked alone, the lessons learned, and the wisdom gained.
5. Celebrate Your Platonic Friendships
Friendships are underrated, they can be just as fulfilling as romantic relationships, yet they often don’t receive the same amount of attention on Valentine’s Day.
Turn the day into a celebration of your most meaningful connections. Organise a “Galentine’s Day” with your female friends, a “Guyantine’s Day” with your male friends or a “Palentine’s Day” gathering with your parents.
Whether it’s a cozy dinner party, a movie marathon, or simply spending time outdoors, the focus should be on the joy of friendship and connection.
If you’re feeling creative, you could even organise a “friendship gift exchange” where everyone brings small, thoughtful gifts that highlight their bond on Valentine’s Day. It’s not about the price of the gift, but the sentiment and the shared experiences.