It's that time of year again... February 14th, Valentine's Day. And whether you're #foreveralone or in a committed relationship or married, engaged or in a long distance relationship, this day is incredibly stressful and it shouldn't be. Today is just a random Wednesday in February, nothing more, nothing less lovelies. But, since it is still stressful due to capitalism and societal pressures, here are a few tips to make your Valentine's Day more tolerable and potentially even fun! (bear with me okay?)
Tip 1: Get rid of your standards and expectations.
If you have sky high expectations of Valentines Day, you are going to be let down. Maybe someone will sporadically admit that they've been in love with you or maybe you are gonna go through this day just like any other day. And if you are in a relationship, please do not expect two dozen roses and chocolates and a giant teddy bear or jewelry and a fancy dinner. The prices of all of those things skyrockets this time of year and I promise you that randomly getting flowers when you're having a rough day will feel immensely better than getting the obligatory roses on Valentines Day and it won't break the bank. For those of you in long distance relationships, just try and face time or call each other. Don't go flying or expect them to cross the country on a random Wednesday with all of the societal pressure, plan a weekend to visit each other and put the money you would've spent on today to use on that trip, you won't regret it, just surround yourself with friends and stay in contact with your partner.
Tip 2: If you are single, take yourself on a date.
Buy yourself some chocolates or flowers and take yourself or a group of your friends out to dinner or order out and watch movies together, Galentines Day may be over, but it's always the right time for a little self and group love.
Tip 3: Restaurants are going to be PACKED. Please don't get mad if you have to wait for a table.
The restaurant is working as hard and as fast it can to make sure that all of your Valentine's Days go by without a hitch, do not get upset if you have to wait to be seated. Similarly, a lot of restaurants do not take reservations, they operate on a first come first serve basis, so stay cool okay? No one needs that stress. And if you or your partner forgot to call ahead, don't get mad at them. You can go to dinner at that place any other time and you will have just as good of a time, probably even better because it most likely will not be that crowded any other Wednesday. While not the norm, take out is perfectly acceptable, what matters today is appreciating and being with your partner.
Tip 4: Remember that this is a capitalistic, money grabbing holiday that enforces gender roles and heteronormativity.
You most definitely do not have to buy into this holiday, you are allowed to want things but don't make others feel bad if they do not want or get them. If your queer friends feel uncomfortable, tell them they're okay and most definitely do not make anyone feel inadequate for not spending today as you would. Today really is just another Wednesday, don't forget that.
You are all beautiful and worthy of love my darlings, never forget that. Don't let one day tear you down. Love yourself always, be undeniably you, if things don't go perfect that is completely okay, don't let it ruin your day. You are amazing and even if you've planned your date out to every detail and it doesn't work out, remember that you are still perfect. Don't you ever forget that.
