Being Single on Valentines Day Doesn’t Have to Suck

Single on Valentines Day; the stereotype is constantly presented in media; a woman crying alone into her ice cream: Bridget Jones style. But that doesn’t have to be your reality! Valentine’s Day is a day about love; we often only think about love romantically but it’s so much more than that. Familial, platonic and self love are so often pushed to the side but they’re just as important. Here are the things that can make being single on Valentine’s Day special this year:

Pamper yourself: Make it an all about me day. Spend the day treating yourself to indulgences, things that make you feel good and bring you excitement. Indulge solo or invite a single friend. Have a cool co-worker or acquaintance? Ask them to join you, making new friends as an adult is hard but there’s nothing like being single on Valentine’s Day to bring people together. Making single friends will benefit your life long after Valentine’s Day, having someone to go to events and hit the town with can do wonders for your dating life.

Thriving While Single on Valentines Day: Focus on You!

Being single on Valentines Day doesn’t have to feel lonely—it’s an opportunity to focus on yourself, embrace your independence, and make the day meaningful. Don’t compare yourself to others; plenty of people would love to trade places with you or are disappointed by their own plans. The grass always seems greener on the other side, but dwelling on it will only make you miserable. Jealousy won’t change your situation, and being bitter about couples won’t make being single on Valentine’s Day any better. Instead, shift your focus outward. There are so many people who could use support, especially on Valentine’s Day. Consider writing cards for veterans, visiting seniors, or volunteering at a women’s shelter. Making a difference in someone else’s life can be far more rewarding than spending the day feeling down.

Most importantly, don’t throw yourself a pity party. Confident, self-loving people attract others, and if you’re wallowing in self-pity about being single on Valentine’s Day, it will only hold you back from making meaningful connections. The more you learn to love yourself, the more you’ll be open to new relationships where you can give your whole self.

Stay off Tinder—while it might seem like a good distraction, chances are it will just leave you feeling worse. If you’re in the mood to indulge, order delivery and skip the crowded restaurants full of couples. And whatever you do, stay away from your ex. Don’t call, don’t text, and definitely don’t stalk their social media. You broke up for a reason, and keeping your distance will help you move forward.

This Valentine’s Day, make it about celebrating you!