In my 22 years of life, I have rarely seen Valentine’s Day depicted as anything but sad and lonely for single people, whether in pop culture, on social media or from my coupled-up friends apologizing when I say I don’t have plans.
This year I decided to switch up the narrative and make it a day to focus on myself. I mean, it would be hypocritical not to celebrate self-love on the “day of love” when I am constantly preaching self-love every other day of the year.
I started my day off early and really committed to the whole idea of treating myself, grabbing Starbucks for breakfast and caffeine to mentally prepare myself for the day — I even splurged and got a venti.
My morning honestly wasn’t too interesting. Valentine’s Day fell on a Monday, so I had my normal routine of doing some work, homework and going to class.
After classes wrapped up, I came back to my house and went on a walk with my roommates.
This is when I realized having no plans sounded so much better than being with someone and going out. I could literally do anything I wanted — and I did!
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I came home from my walk, hopped in bed, caught up on HBO’s “Euphoria,” painted my nails and did a face mask.
I finally ordered take-out for dinner while I watched my favorite ’90s romantic comedies until my roommates and I convened in our living room for festive cocktails and a “Great British Baking Show” marathon.
It was the perfect ending to a perfect day. In the past, I would’ve written off Valentine’s Day entirely, but it took on a whole new meaning for me this year. Yes, it is a day dedicated to showing your significant other that you love them, but I think we forget about family, friends and, most importantly, ourselves.
Whether you are single or in a relationship, Valentine’s Day is what you make it. I am so glad I seized the opportunity to make it one of the best days I have had so far this year.
