Sure, it’s nice to have someone with whom to share Valentine’s Day, and not having one can be hard. Coupled friends are making reservations for expensive dinners, stressing out over choosing a gift, and paying inflated prices for roses. Someone on my Facebook newsfeed offered to pay real money to buy a browser extension that would block all Valentine’s Day content from his Internet experience. Before you desperately message potential dates on OK Cupid, consider the alternative — you can be your own awesome Valentine. Here’s how:
| 1. | Treat yo’ self |
If there’s an ideal gift you’d want from a partner, give it to yourself. Buy yourself a bouquet. Looking at flowers in the middle of winter brings cheer no matter who bought them. Are you a chocolate fanatic? Buy a box of candy or make chocolate-dipped strawberries that you don’t have to share. Ladies, would you want jewelry from your date? Let’s be real. They wouldn’t really pick out something that’s your style anyway. But you would wear it no matter how hideous it was. When you’re your own V-day date, you get to buy yourself that stylish ring from Etsy you’ve been coveting for months.
| 2. | Eat well |
If you were in a couple, what would you do for dinner? When you’re your own Valentine, there are no arguments, no compromises, and no disappointment if you didn’t get the reservations you wanted. If you’re talented in the kitchen, cook yourself a delicious meal at home. You won’t be stressed about making it perfect or care if you burn the crust of the garlic bread. Or order takeout from your favorite restaurant — it’s probably best to avoid going out to the restaurant where you’d be watching a bunch of couples get cozy or awkwardly get to know each other on first Internet dates.
[Photo: Kayana Szymczak for the Boston Globe]
| 3. | Write yourself a love letter |
It seems silly but this could be fun and is mentally healthy. Loving yourself is super important. You’re the only one who will always be there, no matter what. The more you love yourself the easier it will be to find other people who will love you, too – if that’s what you’re looking for. Don’t worry about seeming like an egotistical douche bag because you’re keeping this private. Write down what it is that you love about yourself. What are your best attributes — physically, mentally, emotionally, and personality-wise? Why are you proud of yourself? What are your hopes for your future? Next time you’re feeling down, read it again.
[Photo: Quinn Dombrowski]
