Valentine’s Day usually divides the world into two camps: those who dread the heart-shaped balloons, restaurants filled with lovers and the huge price-hike at the florist’s, and the people who LOVE it, ecstatic at the prospect of exchanging gifts and eating fancy food.
Valentine’s Day can be a time of unnecessary pressure, for singles and couples. If you’re in a relationship, you might feel like you have to make a huge declaration of love to prove your commitment. If you’re single, the holiday can serve as an unwelcome reminder that you’re not loved up and make you feel like you’re missing out.
The Covid-19 pandemic already made singles everywhere feel acutely aware of their relationship status – and the last thing anyone needs is a reminder. Here’s a list of things you could do instead of worrying about being single on Valentine’s Day, depending on how you’re feeling about it...
If you’re missing the romantic treats
Take a moment to think about what makes Valentine’s Day a positive experience for people in relationships. Is it thoughtful gifts? The fancy meal? The words of affirmation? Now think about how you can channel that energy into yourself. This February 14th, treat yourself like you would your dream V-Day date. Splash a bit of cash on a gift from you to you. Take the opportunity to get stuck into the Netflix series on your to-watch list with the peace that comes from having no one to fight over the remote with. Run yourself a bath and luxuriate in it for as long as you like. Write down ten things you like about yourself.
If you’re missing connection
Take a leaf out of Amy Poehler's Parks and Recreation character - who coined the term Galentine’s Day - and celebrate with your friends instead! Gather a group of friends together, or slip yourself into your favourite pair of pyjamas, get comfy on the sofa, and call a friend for a platonic Valentine’s Day date. Use today as an opportunity to catch up with someone you’ve been meaning to message, have a gossip and a laugh, and remember that romantic love isn’t the only kind of love worth celebrating.
If you’re missing the V-Day sex
You’re only human. It can be tempting to reminisce about previous relationships and the steamy bedroom antics you and your partner got up to on past occasions, or feel envious of those lucky enough to have a love-interest. Good news though – there are plenty of ways to make sure you have a very happy Valentine’s Day, all by yourself. Experiment with solo-sex, try out a new sex toy, dress up in lingerie (or your birthday suit) for no one but you. You deserve sexual satisfaction as much as those who are loved up. Use your imagination and go wild!
If you’re heartbroken
The Covid 19 pandemic put tension on romantic relationships, break-ups happen, and unfortunately, that means that some people will be gearing up for a very sad Valentine’s Day. If that’s you, know that you’re perfectly within your rights to feel shit today. You don’t need to sugarcoat how you’re feeling, or pretend it’s all sunshine and light. If you want to wallow, wallow. Take being alone on Valentine’s Day as the perfect opportunity to hibernate – stay in bed, sleep, surround yourself with your favourite snacks. Blast Adele from your speakers, and know that your feelings are valid and you’ll get through this.
If you really don’t care
Not everyone cares about Valentine’s Day, and that’s perfectly fine. Good, even. If you fall into this camp, feel free to treat it like any other Monday. Do some washing, clean your space, chill out in front of the TV. We salute you.
Valentine’s Day is what you make it, and in the grand scheme of things, it really doesn’t matter. Take this day as a chance to check in with yourself and how you’re feeling, and do what feels right for you. Remember, above all else, that it’s much better to be by yourself than in a relationship that makes you unhappy.
Let’s take the pressure off and see Valentine’s Day for what it really is – just another day in the calendar.
