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As “Cuffing Season” comes to an end and hope is restored in the promise of Spring, one is hit with the all too familiar Valentine’s Day. February, a month perhaps more irrelevant than others, reclaims its name with this joyous holiday, yet a day perhaps only joyous for some. More often than not, for those of us still dreadfully un-cuffed, it becomes a blatant reminder of another year of being single.
Ironically, what began as a tragic tale of blood and brutality has now been reframed as a selling point for all things love and romance. Hearts, roses, deals for two and cards ‘just for you’ crowd the screens and shop windows in an inescapable abundance.
So, what to do when February 14th arrives and one is still single?
Firstly, never underestimate the power of a Galentine’s Day. Grab anything and everything pink, put on an Olivia Rodrigo album and celebrate the importance of your friendships.
Remind yourself why any former love interests are no longer. Do not by any means dwell on what ifs or whether now would be the perfect time to rekindle the love.
Maybe try sobriety. Drinking your sorrows can potentially be romanticised but come February 15th, I fear you will not feel very main character anymore.
Again, I’m always an advocate for going to bed earlier, therefore the day will be over much sooner. Avoidance can be excellently productive sometimes.
Do not and I repeat do not go to any restaurants. You may regret it as they will be sickeningly full of happy and successful couples. Plus, you’ll never regret saving the money.
Read a book. Some of my personal favourites for feeling single are: Eat, Pray, Love and City of Girls (Elizabeth Gilbert), Everything I Know About Love (Dolly Alderton) or Conversations on Love (Natasha Lunn).
If reading is too much of a chore, listen to a podcast. My recommendations include Sentimental Garbage, especially “Love Actually (ranked) with Monica Heisey”, The Matcha Diaries with episodes like “heartbreak and healing”, “solo dates and self-love” or if brave enough, their Valentine’s Day episodes. Try Happy Place if you want something uplifting and hilariously funny, I would suggest the Nick Grimshaw or Gillian Anderson episodes.
If you are in the dating mood, have a solo date. Cook something fun, treat yourself, have a spa night or just do whatever to fill the void.
Equally, if you’re feeling spontaneous, download a dating app. See what’s left and take your pick.
Finally and as always, remember that Valentine’s Day is simply 24 hours of a whole year. And who knows, maybe next year you’ll have someone to spend it with… a girl can dream.
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