Dating Yourself Next Valentine's Day
Because it’s better to celebrate you, anyways.
by HOPE CAMPBELL ★ FEBRUARY 16, 2023
So Valentine’s day came and went, and to many, it honestly felt like a drag. Seeing all the old couples and surprising new ones post each other on all social media platforms wasn’t fun. But, we single people need to stop moping in our loneliness and just start dating ourselves! Practicing self-love is a great way to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and appreciating yourself and your own company can be a significant way to start. Here are three ways to date yourself next Valentine’s Day, and every day after that:
1. Plan a special day just for yourself
This could include activities that you enjoy, such as going to the movies, taking a walk in the park, or even just spending some time alone with a good book. Organizing a day doing things you love is important because many individuals never set time aside for that. You could also plan a special meal for yourself, such as cooking a favorite new dish or ordering that heart-shaped pizza you keep seeing on your Instagram feed. Whatever you choose to do, make sure it's something that you will enjoy and that will make you feel special.
2. Get yourself a gift
Normalize going into the local stores that are stacked with heart-shaped goodies and teddy bears, picking out your favorite things, and buying them for yourself. Who says you can't pamper yourself? As for what to purchase, this could be something small–like flowers–which are a classic Valentine’s Day staple. Whether it’s a bouquet of roses or a single stem, it's a beautiful reminder that you're worth celebrating. Plus, the bright colors and sweet scent can help you feel uplifted and appreciated. After walking through the flower aisle, you can purchase some chocolate. Whether you buy a whole box or just a single bar, it's a sweet reminder that you're worth treating yourself. Plus, it's a delicious indulgence that can help you feel special. You can even take the route of truly treating yourself to something bigger. Been eyeing a new piece of jewelry lately? Get it! Been dying to try the new spa in town because you hear the massages are amazing? Go! Ultimately, you get to decide the rules and how you feel, so make yourself feel valued. Prioritizing yourself is a great way to assist your overall well-being. Taking time to focus on and love yourself is a reminder that you're worth celebrating. Don't wait for that one person to ask you to be their valentine when you can just be your own!
3. Reflect
Take some time to sit down and reflect on the things that you absolutely love about yourself. Write down a list of your positive qualities and accomplishments, and take the time to genuinely appreciate them. This can be a great way for you to boost your self-esteem and remind yourself of all the wonderful things that make you unique. This can also be a way for you to inspire yourself and find motivation in your academics or career.
No matter how you choose to spend your Valentine’s Day, make it custom to you. Find your happiness through self-love and appreciation. Whether that’s treating yourself, or spending quality time on your own, prioritize it; because loving yourself is a truly beautiful thing that should never be overlooked.