With the release of Ariana Grande's "thank u, next" studio album, compact with anthem upon anthem about being independent, I felt like being single on Valentine's Day was not such a bad idea especially this year.

Our generation is interesting because I feel like now more than ever, we realize the power of independence. Not that being or falling in love is a bad thing that should be shamed, because it's not, but neither is being single. For at least the past three years, I have been dating someone during Hallmark's February holiday and I just wanted to know: what would it be like to spend Valentine's Day single?

I suppose one could see it as simply just another day, but I saw it as an opportunity to take myself out, show myself a good time. This year has been one of personal growth and reflection for me and honestly, it's nice to be alone for a change. It's refreshing and new - I have been feeling emotionally spent for some time now. Being single in a new state, in a new city, has changed that.

In the morning, my friends and I sent each other those online Valentine's Day cards people meme on Twitter and post. I bought myself a necklace from work that I had been wanting (it has a small heart-shaped pendant, convenient for the holiday) and along with a small rose quartz in the shape of a heart. I also bought myself a pizookie from BJ's Brewhouse and went home. I put on some sweats, something I haven't been able to do on Valentine's Day in a long time, and watched my favorite movies while eating my dessert in a face mask. Sounds pretty average, maybe lonely right? I have to disagree.

It's all about perspective in my opinion. For me, spending quality time with myself and growing who I am before settling down is important. I'd rather spend a few Valentine's Days alone than many with someone who I'd either forget about in five or so years, someone that wasn't the person I fell in love while mentally and emotionally healthy and ready. Again, that's just how I feel personally. I know I am not ready for commitment. If you think I am not the number one fan of my friends that are in healthy relationships though, you'd be sorely mistaken.

All in all, I just want to say take a day for yourself sometime this year. Go for a hike, go to a restaurant or cafe you haven't been to, learn how to cook. There's so much to learn about yourself and so much spiritual and mental healing that can be done in just a few hours in your life where you don't feel like you have to be present anywhere but you're own mind. You might discover how great it is to be alone, even if it's just for a day. And the best thing about it? You don't have to be single to do it.