You see it everywhere. It’s on every social media site and all over the internet. Twitter has the short stories in tweet format, Instagram shows the picture with a sappy caption, and Facebook unfolds paragraph after paragraph and picture after picture of it.
Oh yeah, I forgot to mention what I’m talking about— those pesky things called “love” and “relationships.”
With Valentine’s Day soon approaching it becomes nearly impossible to go online without seeing some "cringey" cute post about someone’s significant other and their happiness.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m happy for all those people, but sometimes it can be hard to not dwell on how single I am during this time of the year when everyone else is so eager to share their seemingly perfect relationships.
This article is for all you people out there in the same boat as I am. Those who won’t be receiving a bouquet of flowers, a box of chocolates, or a romantic date this Valentine’s Day— unless it’s something from your mom.
Don’t let the holiday get you down. Although it feels like the most desirable thing is to be in a happy relationship, there are positives to being single this time of year.
For one, you can save money. Without having someone you’re required to buy something for, you have the option of treating yourself or simply saving the money for a rainy day. Go ahead and buy yourself that shirt you’ve wanted forever or even a box of chocolates—it’s an excuse to cheat on that diet you’ve been diligently following. The best part of this is nobody must even know you caved and did it.
Take a couple days surrounding the holiday for your very own, all-expenses-paid social media vacation. Shut down all those apps that are only going to foster the sadness of being alone and take a break. A good social media cleanse is something you’ve probably been meaning to do, anyways—right? Although this can be nearly impossible for many young and old people alike, it’s something that can relieve a lot of stress and anxiety from your life while simultaneously improving your spirits around Valentine’s Day.
Plan yourself the perfect evening; it can be staying in or going out, completely your choice. Stay in and read that book you’ve been meaning to, work on your favorite hobby, or binge watch your newest Netflix series. This can be an evening completely dedicated to you and the things you like to do. Don’t be afraid to dress up and take yourself on a date— this could be to your favorite restaurant or even somewhere like the movies.
Or, if you have a few close friends in the same situation as yourself, plan a girls’ or guys’ night. Get together and do something each of you in the group enjoys. This can be the perfect way to spend the evening.
Notice all the words directed at you during this article; they’re all meant to drive home the point that this can be a holiday for couples and singles alike. Don’t dwell on the thought that you’re single during the Day of Love and take advantage of the opportunity. Just because you’re not spending it the traditional way doesn’t mean it can’t be your best Valentine’s Day to date.