It's Valentine's Day, and you're currently without a significant other. This small, but crucial, fact can mean the difference between enjoying this holiday, or ranking it as one of the year's low points (and hey, it's only February…). It's not enough that red, white, and pink roses are popping up everywhere and there are ONLY mushy cards in the card store, and all the commercials focus on just how incredibly diamond studded Valentine's Day could be - for you - IF you were in a romantic relationship. What's billed as the “most romantic night” of the year for couples can leave singles feeling a bit… odd and left out, to say the least.
What's a single person to do?
1) First, recognize that you're definitely not the only one. estimates that more than 80 million people will spend this holiday as a single.
2) Decide what your vision is for Valentine's Day. Is it a day you want to celebrate? Or would you prefer to treat it like just another day? If you choose the latter, then go through your normal routine for February 14, knowing that February 15 will arrive and life will be back to normal (at least until next year…).
3) If you choose to celebrate Valentine's Day consider making it a date night with yourself. Make or order your favorite meal, chill something wonderful to drink. Rent a favorite movie, or buy a new book - whatever makes you feel special and cherished. Make this night sacred time for you to think your thoughts and dream your dreams.
4) If you've been invited to a Valentine's Day party definitely considering going. There's a pretty good chance that you'll meet some other singles to spend time with. This is especially important if you belong to a church or social group which is hosting an event - this could be a high level attraction venue for you, as it will draw others with similar backgrounds or interests. Make sure you look and feel your best.
5) If you have several single friends, consider throwing your own Valentine's Day party. Have every invitee bring a guest - you're likely to meet new people and have fun doing so!
6) If throwing a party feels like too much work, consider getting a group together to go out for dinner and/or dancing. Try to go to a “fun” restaurant such as Planet Hollywood or Hard Rock Café - someplace that is too loud for intimate dinners.
7) Use this day to try (or buy) something new. Pick up a hobby or a craft, cook a new kind of cuisine, work on a home decorating or improvement project. Time will pass quickly while you're beautifying your surroundings.
8) Exercise today! This will clear your skin, tone your body, and keep the endorphins flowing. You'll also feel more relaxed and will sleep better.
9) If you like children, consider offering to watch your friends' kids while they go out to celebrate. You may have a great time baking cookies and building furniture forts and will earn your friends' gratitude in the process.
10) Spend Valentine's Day giving and sharing your talents with other people. Give of yourself on this day- maybe by volunteering or helping out - you'll find yourself tapping in to great joy.
11) Use the night to catch up on your overdue correspondence such as emails, letters, thank you cards. It's another way of reaching out and staying in touch. Plus it will be a relief to clear those off your “to-do” list.
12) Consider spending the evening listening to live music, or hanging out at a local coffee house or bookstore café. You can do your own thing but still be with other people.
13) Draw names and trade Valentines with your friends. They can be fun or silly but they are a great way to solidify your friendships.
14) Use the night to catch up on your sleep. Get ready for bed a bit earlier and wind down sooner. Americans are generally sleep deprived so catch up when you can!
15) Finally, remind yourself that by not spending Valentine's Day with just anyone, you're taking great care of YOU and preparing for a wonderful, life-long relationship!
Happy Valentine's Day!
