Being Alone on Valentine's Day

Whether you are intentionally single on Valentine's Day or you have recently ended a relationship, there are plenty of fun and entertaining ways to spend your Valentine's Day. Perhaps the most important thing to remember is that it's not all about the candy, card and flowers that bombard us all in the retail world.

If you would like to make Valentine's Day special for someone else – perhaps even a stranger – there are plenty of options. One suggestion is to send yourself roses at work with a blank card. This will be entertaining and puzzling to your office-mates, and on the way home you can distribute a single rose to people that you pass who look like they could use the pick-me-up. After all, sometimes the best joy is that of giving happiness to others.

If you have the evening free, why not call a local hospital or nursing home to find out if there's a patient who doesn't have family visiting frequently and drop in to wish them a Happy Valentine's Day complete with flowers or a goodie basket. This might turn out to be the most rewarding day of your life. If you choose this route, be sure to have some tissues as it could turn into a teary experience for both of you.

If you'd rather just spend some time on yourself, why not schedule a hair and nail appointment at your favorite salon? Or consider getting a massage or other spa treatment that you have been holding off on for whatever reason? Then treat yourself (and maybe a friend!) to dinner at your favorite fancy restaurant.

There's no shame in being single on Valentine's Day!

One of the most preferred activities among singles is getting together with friends for dinner and a movie. Why not schedule something like this for February 14 too? Your single friends will appreciate the time out, and so will you.

It is so important to remember that you are defined by who YOU are, and not who you are dating (or not dating!). Although not be single by choice – it's ok to forego the traditional commercial sentiments of romance associated with February 14! And most importantly, if you are single this year due to a recent loss of a loved one or partner it is ok to admit to your family and friends that it's a rough day for you – ask for their support and they will be there for you.

Valentine's Day is a commercialized holiday – to the retailers it's about hearts and flowers (and dollar signs). Consider yourself lucky if you don't have to participate in that madness.