Valentines for One: Making Valentine’s Day Fun, With or Without a Romantic Partner

Last week we talked about what to do for your significant other for Valentine’s Day. This week I want to address the rest of you; those who may not have someone special in your life at the moment. Valentine’s Day can be lonely, but it doesn’t have to be! There are so many ways to enjoy a day that revolves around letting the people in your life know that you love them. Let’s explore a few today!

Show yourself some love.

Plan to spend the day pampering yourself. After all, when was the last time you told yourself, “I love you?” I think we often overlook ourselves and tend to look outward. You know what you want and need, so why not take some time to take care of yourself? Watch your favorite movie in some comfortable pajamas. Eat all the candy. Go to bed early or stay up late. Whatever floats your boat!

Send your parents a card.

They spent the first 18 years of your life looking after you and never stopped loving you. Send them a thoughtful card or hand-written letter for Valentine’s Day! Chances are it will mean more to them than you know. 

Celebrate with friends.

Get your group of friends together (in a COVID-safe way–Zoom is ALWAYS an option) and play games or watch movies. Make snacks and talk about all the things you’ve been too busy to catch up on. Maybe binge watch TV shows you all like or bake some delicious cookies. Whatever you do, show them how much they mean to you.

Buy yourself a gift.

You know what you like best, so buy yourself a Valentine’s Day gift! Maybe you really like that giant plush elephant or you’re really craving some good quality chocolate. Indulge a little in the name of loving yourself. It’s okay to invest in yourself the same way you would invest in someone else. 

Valentine’s Day is often thought to be all about romantic love and relationships, but it doesn’t have to fit this mold. Make the day your own and remember that the point is to show love to those who mean the most in your life, including yourself! It is natural to feel some sadness on holidays like Valentine’s Day and there is no shame in talking to a friend about this, but I hope you find some way to make the day amazing.

Kaitlynn Toay is a senior

English major from

Edgeley, N.D.