How to Enjoy Valentine’s Day without a Valentine

If you dreaded New Year’s because you knew that red hearts, stuffed animals, and candy would start springing up all over the place the next day, you’re not alone. For singles, Valentine’s Day can be a tough time because it makes even the most fiercely independent people feel lonely. The good news is, you can enjoy Valentine’s Day even if you don’t have a valentine. Our tips will help you make the most of the day.

Celebrate Yourself

Commit to making this Valentine’s Day be the time when you put yourself first and practice some self-love. Pamper yourself by getting a massage, going for a manicure, or taking a long soak in the bathtub. Read the book your parents gave you for Christmas that’s been gathering dust on your coffee table since the holidays. Order takeout with dessert from your favorite fancy restaurant and enjoy eating it in the comfort of your own home in the comfiest clothes you own. Whatever you decide to do today, be sure to celebrate yourself and indulge in ways you normally wouldn’t.

Image via Pixabay by jill111

Image via Pixabay by jill111

Make Time to Laugh

Even if you’re feeling down in the dumps on Valentine’s Day, you need to take part in activities that will make you laugh and boost your mood. Studies show that laughing reduces stress and boosts your mood. Watch funny movies, stream a comedy routine, or read a funny book to boost your mood. Make a date with your other single friends to go to a comedy show and then treat yourselves to dessert afterward.

Make Time for Others

The last thing you want to do on Valentine’s Day is have a pity party or wallow in failed relationships. Take charge of your day by making time for others and showing how much you care. Visit your grandmother, volunteer at a soup kitchen, or take handmade cards to an assisted living facility. When you spend time with others and ensure they are not alone on Valentine’s Day, you’ll put a smile on their faces and feel good at the same time.

Make a Positive Change

If you feel like you are stuck, commit to making a positive life change on Valentine’s Day. If you’re slacking on your New Year’s resolution, make a plan for sticking to it. Or, choose one area of your life that you want to improve, such as quitting smoking or spending less time on social media, and commit to beginning February 14. Smart small, figure out how to hold yourself accountable, set short-term goals to measure your progress, and plan rewards when you meet them.

Try Something New

While it may be tempting to reflect on the past and start questioning relationship decisions, you should focus on the future on Valentine’s Day by trying something new instead. Sign up to take a cooking class or a photography class. Ask your aunt to teach you how to knit or crochet. Or, make a reservation for your best single friend and try the new restaurant you keep talking about but haven’t yet visited. If you’re feeling really adventurous, sign up to take a dance class or make a profile on a dating site.

Avoid Love Triggers

If you live with depression or are at risk of addiction, it may be best to ignore Valentine’s Day or avoid the triggers that upset you. Have a playlist filled with upbeat music ready to go for your commute, put on your headphones, and go about your day like it is any other day of the year. Avoid watching romantic movies or episodes of television shows that will upset you. For some people, going to work and seeing people get flowers and gifts and hearing them talk about their plans with their significant other is more than they can handle; consider taking the day off and spend time with friends or doing something you love.

If you decide to enjoy Valentine’s Day this year, there is a good chance you will succeed. Stay focused on your plan for the day and remain busy by trying some of our tips, and you may just find that Valentine’s Day is the best day you’ve so far this year.

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