I can’t remember the last time I had a successful Valentine’s day. In fact, I have seen firsthand just about every way Valentine’s Day can go wrong. From being broken up with on the night of February 13th, to my valentine who went on a lovely V-Day vacation (without me), to having an allergic reaction to the well-intentioned roses left at my door, I have seen it all. So, naturally, my Februrary 15th is usually spent looking at pictures of people who had a much better day than me and wondering why I never have any luck. Stupid cupid.
So last year I decided to stop trying so hard. I came to the realization that the only reason Valentine's Day was so disappointing was because I had too many expectations for it. Single as a Pringle, I set out to have a fun day by myself. I found a cute coffee shop, bought myself some (non-allergenic) flowers, and fell asleep watching "Twilight" next to my perfect match (my college roommate). Needless to say, I think I had a better day than most. It turns out that being your own Valentine is a lot more fun (and a lot less expensive). After all, who knows exactly what I want better than me?
So if you’re feeling pressured to find a last minute valentine, or are simply fed up with the holiday as a whole, here are some fun and fulfilling things to do this Valentine’s Day solo (besides eating ice cream and watching "The Notebook").
1.Enter a 5k to try and beat your own personal record.
You won't have to worry about anyone slowing you down (or judging you for walking the last half).
2.Volunteer for the day at your local animal shelter
Dogs are like people, except a little cuter and a lot less judgmental. Give love and get love this V-day from some furry friends.
3.Create your own recipe
If it turns out badly, no one has to know and you can just order takeout.
4.Buy a meal for a homeless person
For many, not having a Valentine is the worst thing that has happened to them in a while. But to others, not having a place to call home is a bigger concern. Everyone deserves to feel loved, and what better day to show someone that they are?
5.Plan your next vacation
Treat yo' self.
6.Go for that tattoo you’ve been so afraid to get
It may sound a little crazy, but often times other people's opinions can talk us out of what we really want. Going alone to get a permanent mark on your body guarantees that it will turn out exactly the way YOU want it. Just make sure someone spellchecks it first.
7. Go to a wine tasting and figure out what you like
Don't worry though, you're probably not the only one who can't taste the difference.
8.Start a blog and your first entry
Call it what you want, but blogs are a great way to get your thoughts straight and share them with other people. You could even write your first post about an article you read on spending Valentines Day alone that changed your life. I don't know, just spit-balling ideas over here.
9.Write a letter to your future husband or wife
I once read an article about a woman who wrote a letter to her future husband every year until she got married. On her wedding day, she gave him all of the letters, to remind him that her identity would not change just because she was becoming his wife. Sit down alone and tell your future spouse your hopes and dreams for the future, and to hurry the hell up!
10.Go to an airport and watch the arrivals gate
If you've ever seen the movie "Love Actually", you know that I can't take full credit for this one. Nevertheless, watching people embrace and reunite can warm even the coldest of hearts. Sometimes watching love from the outside is just as beautiful as being in it.
11.Try meditation
When surrounded constantly by others, we often lose the value of our quiet time. Put on some music, light a few candles, and focus on your breathing.
12.Go to an amusement park
Yes, it's true, amusement parks aren't usually a destination for the solitary. However, many people ignore the fact that when you're alone, you enjoy the priceless perk of the single rider line!
13.Go to a museum
Pull a Ferris Bueller and take a day off. Learn some fun facts about history or enjoy art without someone else telling you what they think.
14.Donate blood
If you're not opposed to a little poke and a lighter head, this is a great option to do something meaningful. Valentines Day is about the heart, so take this opportunity to help someone fill theirs and participate in a local blood drive. An added bonus? FREE SNACKS.
Whatever you decide to do, just remember that there is a huge difference between being lonely and being alone.
