There is a stigma around being single. Some people feel they have to take pity on you or see those who are single as less than others. Realistically, none of this is true — being single can be enjoyable and freeing. Valentine’s Day is no exception and anyone can celebrate regardless of their relationship status. There’s no reason to not celebrate love and the color pink.
When it comes to celebrating the day, couples schedule candlelight dinners or wholesome picnics in the park. Jokes are made about single people watching sad movies, overindulging in chocolate or spending the day sad and in the gutter. While many may feel a sense of sadness, you don’t have to be in a relationship to make plans for love.
Valentine’s Day revolves around love, bright flowers and bundled chocolates in the shape of hearts. I don’t know about you, but I like all of that stuff any day of the year whether I am single or taken. This year, celebrate the love you have for your family or friends or better yet, yourself.
First things first, make a plan and have something to look forward to. Grab some friends, go out to eat and go see a movie. Just in time for the occasion, “Madame Web” and “Bob Marley: One Love” are both being released Feb. 14. Enjoy those you love by celebrating each other and maybe even getting each other gifts. Turn the day into an event with those you love by searching for fun recipes and baking something.
If you don’t want to be around a group of people, you can take a more chill route and just make Valentine’s Day a self-care day. Simply do little things to remind yourself that you are loved. Clean up your room, wrap yourself in a blanket and binge-watch TV while eating your favorite snacks. In this scenario, ordering takeout from your favorite restaurant is never a bad idea. Relaxing and caring for yourself is better than letting yourself believe you’re going to be sad if you’re single come Feb. 14.
The idea that being single is a bad thing isn’t only untrue on Valentine’s Day. Being single means you get to be independent and do what you love whenever you want to do it. Some people are simply happier and more fulfilled when they’re single than when they’re in a relationship. Being single allows time to think about what you want in a partner and it demonstrates that you don’t jump into relationships too fast. Other benefits to being on your own include more time for physical activity and more time to build stronger friendships.
This year, start seeing Valentine’s Day as what it is: a holiday. It is not a day to feel sorry for yourself or others. Being single means Valentine’s Day is an extra 24 hours for you to do whatever you want, so fill the time with something that makes you happy.
Kyra Dapore is a sophomore studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. Want to talk more about it? Let Kyra know by emailing her at kd364521@ohio.edu.
