No sooner than the Christmas lights are down and the tree has been put away, the holiday many single people dread creeps up on you – Valentine’s Day. Since I have spent the last 10 years single on Valentine’s Day (except that one time), I don’t really sweat it. It’s just another day to me. *Kanye shrug*   Just because you don’t have a boo thang doesn’t mean you’re alone! Besides, being single isn’t necessarily a bad thing. I could tell you some stories about my past relationships where being single made more sense. Goodness! I can do bad all by myself. But that’s another post for another time. In the mean time, let’s give this made up Hallmark holiday the finger and celebrate.

Here are 7 things a single lady can do for Valentine’s Day or as some call it ‘Gal-entine’s Day’. Do you remember ‘Single Awareness Day’? Uggghh…that one can go away.

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1. Celebrate being single. My mother always makes mention that she is so happy that I got to travel, live in another state and just be me in my 20s. She moved from my grandparents’ house into my dad’s house. Unfortunately, she never got the chance to be independent. So it’s important to celebrate this time by yourself before the husband/wife and kids. Sleep in if you want or eat ice cream for breakfast…..just do you on this day! Remember, being single is FABULOUS!

 

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2. Learn something NEW. Want to learn how to cook? Interested in taking up photography? Wish you knew how to do the latest hustle or salsa dance? Challenge yourself to do something you have never done before, or seldom get to do because of your schedule.

 

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3. Go out and have fun! Grab your closest single friends and go out to lunch, meet up for coffee or do dinner. Who says Valentine’s Day has to be about couples? It’s what you make it, so make it about the love you have for your friends.

 

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4. Pamper yourself. Since you aren’t spending money on a boo, spend it on yourself. Treat yourself to a manicure, pedicure, or both! Ballin’ on a budget? Luxuriate in a soothing bath with lavender oil, candles and music. Your body will thank you for it.

 

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5. Spend time with family. Nothing cheers me up more than spending time with my family. Real talk – Valentine’s day can be depressing if you let it. Sitting on mom and dad’s couch kicking the willies is so comforting. Reminiscing about your childhood or listening to family stories will surely take your mind off of the holiday.

 

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6. Have a party. Invite friends over for food, movies, dancing and of course wine. Duh!

 

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7. Pay it forward. Give Valentine’s Day cards to those close to you, like your co-workers and friends, as well as those not so close to you, like the barista at your favorite Starbucks.  Volunteer at your local soup kitchen, homeless shelter or visit a retirement home.  Help those less fortunate than you. Seeing a face light up from your small act of kindness will fill you with love and make the world a better place.

 

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Just remember that it’s only one day (possibly two if you are in the Midwest and celebrate Sweetest Day) of the year. Rejoice that the roses and chocolates will be half-off the next day. Beat the single girl Valentine’s Day blues and embrace your independence!

How do you plan on spending this Valentine’s Day?