Despite attempts to counteract the overwhelming amount of marketing to couples, such as Singles Awareness Day, the days leading up to February 14th can still feel like one of the most challenging times of the year for those of us flying solo.
The best way forward is to foster meaningful, deeper relationships with others. And it all starts by having greater knowledge, understanding, and acceptance of yourself.
To help empower singles everywhere with some helpful self-love tips, especially as Valentine’s Day draws near, here are tips to be joyfully single on Valentine’s Day.
Self love is the very first step.
The most important relationship you have, and will ever have, is the one with the person you see in the mirror. In fact, before you consider a romance with another person you it is essential to unconditionally love yourself first.
Need some ideas? A great way to renew your commitment to yourself is to start a gratitude or inspiration journal and write down ten things you are grateful for in your life. Keep the journal near your bed and contribute to it daily. Additionally, take the Myers Briggs® assessment to gain a deeper understanding of your personality type, inherent strengths and preferences. Figure out what brings you joy and what things you like to avoid, your idiosyncrasies, your originality.
If you don’t know, how can anyone else positively add value to your experiences?
Another idea: gather a stack of magazines and newspapers and cut out anything and everything that peaks your interest, then make an inspiration board. Look for themes and patterns in your creation. You might be surprised by what you learn through this fun and therapeutic exercise.
Related: 5 Steps to Attracting Your Perfect Partner
Celebrate your commitment to self-love by indulging in the little things that make you happy. So much of your time is devoted to routine, work, and taking care of others. In order to give more in your relationships (friends, family, co-workers, etc.), you must take care of yourself first.
Dedicate Valentine’s Day to taking a personal hiatus- visit a new restaurant, check out an art exhibit, watch a funny movie, cross an item off your bucket list, enjoy a soothing massage…the list can go on and on. Whatever you choose, do something that is just for you and remove the guilt.
A little spoiling by purchasing a new outfit can give you a fresh perspective and boost in confidence. Plus, when you feel good others are sure to take notice, making it even more possible to meet the love of your life!
Related: 10 Ways to Recharge Your Mind, Body & Spirit
Just because you’re not romantically involved with someone doesn’t mean you’re alone.
Valentine’s Day is a great opportunity to nurture the relationships you already have. Check in with your parents, grandparents, siblings and close friends that live far away. They think about you more than you know and would love to hear from you.
A phone call is a nice surprise that sends a priceless warm and fuzzy feeling that is sure to bring a smile to their face. Sending flowers, balloons, or a comforting food basket is that ‘loved’ feeling they can touch.
Valentine’s Day is a great time to show the ones who you care most about how much they mean to you. In the process, take note of the impact you have made in other people’s lives just by being you.
Related: The Benefits of Friendship
If you’re looking for a “safe” place on Valentine’s Day where you won’t be surrounded by canoodling couples, the gym or a yoga class is a reliable destination.
More importantly, exercise is a great way to detox your mind and body, and elevate your mood. This kind of mental fitness will bring you greater peace, clarity, and elation so that you can embrace all of the positive things that life has to offer.
Related: 7 Best Bodyweight Exercises You Can Do Without Going to the Gym
It can be depressing to be alone on Valentine’s Day, but even more depressing is staying isolated and missing out on all the opportunities to give of yourself and your talents. In a recent infographic by Visually, the two biggest factors that were said to contribute to happiness around the world were a sense of community and frequent community celebrations.
In fact, just 2 hours a week of volunteering, or 100 hours a year, is shown to boost happiness significantly. Volunteer at a local shelter, hospital or soup kitchen and spread the love to those who are less fortunate. You have the opportunity to make someone’s day, which, in turn, will make you feel amazing!