A Single Girl's Valentine

Being Single on Valentine's Day could be the best thing that ever happened to us. Why? Because it's the best excuse in the world to turn th mushy/lovely greeting card, advertising campaign holiday into All About You day.

Some liberating approaches to the day associated with hearts and flowers are offered;

High Expectations

Valentine's Day brings with it high expectations of being in a relationship, being in love and having the whole 'Hallmark' package on one day. There is a tendency to reflect on the past relationships, how you feel as a single person and what this mean to you. Sometimes it is a marker of another year gone by as a single person, and rather than perceiving this positively - not compromising your standards/settling - we can berate ourselves for losing out, feel unwanted, unattractive, or as there is something wrong with us.

Money - Making Industry

Originally a pagan fertility festival, Valentine's Day has become a multi-million-dollar industry, which has condition us to believe we need hearts, flowers, chocolates a romantic dinner, no cross words and a year's worth of romance packed into one day. Sounds easy, doesn't it? The commercialization of this date can make us fell that our happiness is depending on having the perfect partner and perfect day.

However, it's possible to manage your expectations differently: Rather than viewing Valentine's Day as a 'day of romantic love', view it's as a day of showing love or appreciation to your friends and family - and do not forget yourself! Perhaps this is the day where you treat yourself to  pampering, relaxation  and activities that make you feel good.

Plan Ahead

If you think Valentine's day is going to bring you down, then you need to plan ahead. In reality, unless you are prepared to spend the day in bed without any contact with the media or outside the world, the 'love-bug' will be out there. 

Here are some ideas to ease the day as a single person:

1. As Monday is a working day, pick out a fabulous work outfit that makes you feel confident.

2. Have a funky, upbeat soundtrack ready on the way to work in case the love songs on the radio get to be to much!

3. Remember that your identity is not defined by your single status.

4. If you are recently single, acknowledge that the day may be challenging and rely on your friends and family for supports, especially other singles.

5. Think of all the money you'll save by not buying flowers, chocolates, jewelery and fancy dinners.

6. Think of all the calories you'll save by having chocolates, candy and fancy dinners.

Spa Night

Have a night of pampering. Take turns with girlfriends, giving each other manicures, pedicures and makeup. Try out at-home facial treatments and aromatherapy. Complete the evening with fresh fruit, and,  of course, cocktails.

Single Party

Know a lot of singles? Then throw a party where only single are invited. No one will feel pressure into finding a date and everyone can expect a night fun. Keep the party simple and relaxed.

Volunteer

Valentine's Day can be celebrated as a day of love for everyone. Why not volunteer  for an organisation in the community? visit a home for eldery or deliver flowers to seniors.

Be A Chaperone 

Do you have a younger brother or sister, goddaughter, neighbor or friend's child who is not old enough to go out alone, but still want to celebrate the date? Be the chaperone. They will love to go out with someone much cooler than mum or dad. Give them space when it is appropriate, but make sure they understand you will follow their parent's rules.

Spend Time Alone

Since it is the holiday for love, show yourself love by devoting time to things you enjoy most. Whether it is going for a long walk, reading whatever you like or taking a relaxing bubble bath, everyone deserve a little "Me" time.

Source: Caymanian Compass