Valentine's Day is just around the corner. Soon people will be breaking out red and pink decorations with hearts of all shapes and sizes. Couples will be rushing to the store to pick up flowers and a box full of chocolate that you always have to play a safe version of "chocolate roulette" with. Dates will be planned and dinner reservations will be made. Love poems will be spoken sweetly to an expectant lover while another couple will dance slowly in the kitchen to their favorite song. Valentine's Day always seems to paint the picture of a perfect relationship; it emphasizes a time for lovers to come together and appreciate the quirks and wonderful qualities the other has that makes them unique.

However, not everyone will get to spend Valentine's Day in this way; some people find themselves alone on this holiday. With millions of people on this planet, it is guaranteed that many of them will be spending Valentine's Day just as one would spend a normal Wednesday morning, afternoon, and evening. Some people will spend Valentine's Day quietly while watching couples walk by carrying roses and cardboard hearts filled with sweets, but that is just fine.

It's OK to be alone on Valentine's Day. Though society really loves to emphasize the importance of being in a relationship on Valentine's Day, it is perfectly fine if you are not in a relationship because there are many reasons one is spending the holiday by themselves.

If you find yourself single and watch the couples exchange hugs, kisses, and gifts with a bit of envy or sadness, remember that it is okay that you don't have a date this Valentine's Day. It's OK to feel a little sad and envious, it is only natural to feel that way and to shove those feelings under the rug is not emotionally healthy. However, don't let yourself dwell in negative feelings if you can help it. Remember that your self-worth is not measured on whether you have a date. You may not have a date this year, but this year can still be a wonderful adventure with or without a relationship; just because you don't have a relationship yet does not mean you will never have one in the future. Don't stress or feel too down if you are single this Valentine's Day, it doesn't mean that you are not loved or appreciated. It just means that you have so many opportunities waiting for you in the future.

Remember that it is also OK to not want to be a part of all this relationship business that we all seem to witness every Valentine's Day. You can remain a casual observer and be perfectly satisfied. Though it is sometimes used in a condescending way, it is true that "relationships are not for everyone;" not everyone feels the need and that is perfectly fine. Valentine's Day can be celebrated other ways. Perhaps you can appreciate the love you have for your friends, family, or even pets instead.

Valentine's Day is not a regulated and mandatory holiday or event; one can choose to celebrate it however they want free from the expectations of others and of society.