Valentine’s Day can be a challenge for the newly single. Even if you’ve been single for years, February 14 can be a trigger. There’s a mythology around Valentine’s Day that presumes all of us are less worthy if we don’t have a partner. But you don’t have to drown your sorrows in a huge box of chocolates (unless, of course, you want to!) while binge-watching romantic comedies.

If Valentine’s Day as a single seems depressing or anxiety-provoking, we have some suggestions to embrace the 14th of February.

9 Steps To Embrace Valentine’s Day For The Newly Single

A Box Full of Valentines. Remember third grade? The teacher made you bring a card for everyone in the class. Buy a pack of old school valentines and give to your coworkers or friends.  

Conversation Hearts. Take time to call a family member or neighbor who might be alone. Valentine’s Day can be hard for seniors and people struggling with ill health.

Puppy Love. Visit a local animal shelter to play with the dogs. There’s nothing like puppy kisses to put you in a good mood.

Be your own Significant Other. Buy yourself a bouquet of your favorite flowers or bring in your favorite dinner. Pour yourself a glass of wine. And don’t forget dessert!

Happy Galentine’s — or Guyentine’s Day. It may have become a bit of a cliche but Galentine’s Day is a great opportunity to let your “girls” know how much you appreciate them. The London West Hollywood in Beverly Hills is offering a posh Galentine’s Package for you and up to 9 of your closest pals. The package includes a private floral arrangement workshop on the rooftop, welcome champagne and cocktails, as well as hair and makeup at the salon and a photography session with a professional influencer. Then, you and your pals can enjoy a private dining experience in the hotel’s restaurant. All this comes at a posh price tag of $10,000.

Closer to Home. For a more down home experience, invite other single friends over for Happy Hour. Host a potluck game night. Ask your friends to bring a single friend.

Pump up those endorphins. Take your favorite exercise class or try a new one. Try spin, barre, yoga, or a circuit class.

Do your own thing. In “Bridget Jones Diary,” Renee Zellweger got in touch with her inner torch singer, drinking red wine in her comfy clothes. If all else fails, give yourself permission to wallow, just for one night.

Remember, Valentine’s Day is just another day.

The key to surviving or, better yet, thriving, on holidays as a single is to make plans with friends or other singles. Treat yourself and practice self-care. Celebrate friendship or your kids. Be grateful for what you do have in your life. And if you need to take some time to drown your sorrows under the covers with a pint of ice cream and your favorite rom-com, go ahead. Tomorrow is February 15 and another chance to embrace where you are!

Views expressed in this article are the author’s opinions and do not necessarily reflect the views of Secure Single. It is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not investment or financial advice. James Bollen is the author of Thriving Solo: How to Flourish and Live Your Perfect Life (Without A Soulmate). Now available in paperback and for the Kindle on Amazon. Subscribe to Secure Single’s Substack for free!
Share :
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Beth is a longtime divorcee and professional writer who has focused on helping women and men through the transition to embrace single life following divorce or loss of a partner.
Related Posts
Home Privacy Policy Terms Of Use Affiliate Disclosure