1. It’s never going to be as innocent and carefree as it once was.
I fondly remember passing out the Valentine’s that I had carefully selected to every member of my third grade class.
Those were the days.
Valentine’s Day was about a few paper valentines adorned with your favorite characters and heart shaped candy.
There wasn’t much stress over planning a magical evening or over-thinking about relationships, we just shared a special occasion and special thought with everyone.
Often I wish it could be that simple now, but I’m afraid that’s a bit unrealistic.
It’s important to remember that while it will never be this innocent, Valentine’s Day can still be fun and memorable, single or not.
2. It creates a fantasy land.
As a single person, you may see others being taken out on fancy dates and wooed with fancy cards and gifts.
Everyone seems to have the perfect relationship except you. They have it all, right?
Wrong. Just because they’re staring lovingly into each other’s eyes on Valentine’s Day doesn’t mean they don’t have their fair share of relationship issues just like you.
Valentine’s Day creates somewhat of a fantasy land. These fancy dinners and lavish gifts only last a day.
Most relationships, while meaningful and important, are never quite the fairytale Valentine’s Day portrays them to be.
3. There’s something good in it for everyone (it’s about love, you can either share it with one person, everyone or yourself!)
Single or committed, Valentine’s Day can be enjoyable for everyone.
If you happen to be in a relationship, you get to spend quality time with someone you care for deeply.
And, you may receive thoughtful (or expensive) gifts or get the chance to do something outside of your normal routine.
If you’re single, spend that time or money on yourself or someone else in your life that is important to you!
There’s no shame in buying yourself a Valentine’s Day gift.
After all, there’s a 100% chance you’ll love it, no one knows you better than yourself!
4. Everyone is stressing out trying to make it perfect.
I’m going to go out on a limb and predict that you might have more fun staying in on Valentine’s Day, either with your significant other, or your friends and family.
Try to remember that there’s a lot of people just like you out there who are running about in a panic trying to construct the perfect Valentine’s Day.
As a result, restaurants are their busiest on this day of the year.
Chances are, when you finally book that reservation at the fanciest restaurant in town it won’t be the intimate, romantic night you had envisioned.
You’ll probably be sitting elbow to elbow with another stressed out, panicked couple, enjoy your night!
5. It’s never as good as you hoped.
Just like many other holidays, we build up Valentine’s Day in our minds.
The best thing you can do is try to remember that it’s not going to be as good as you’ve imagined it, nor will be as bad as you’ve imagined it.
If you keep that in the back of your mind, you will not be disappointed and you may even be pleasantly surprised.
6. It can make things awkward.
In terms of new relationships, Valentine’s Day can be as awkward as it gets.
For example, you have been talking to a guy or girl for a while now but it hasn’t’ turned into a committed relationship yet.
Then Valentine’s Day rolls around…what do you do?
What if he gets you something but you didn’t get him anything?
For this reason, I say being on the same page prior to Valentine’s Day is key.
I am not suggesting that you make a decision about the nature of your relationship, simply make a decision about the nature of your Valentine’s Day, with both parties on board.
7. Just like every other holiday, we’ve made it about “stuff”.
A holiday that was meant to celebrate love has become about candy, cards, flowers and jewelry.
Try to limit your “stuff’’ this Valentine’s Day.
Limiting “stuff” limits pressure and saves you money.
Win, win. If you ask me, it really is the thought that counts.
8. It’s over in 24 hours, tomorrow is just another day.
Valentine’s Day doesn’t last forever. Whether you had the worst day ever, or the best, tomorrow is another day.
9. Demonstrating love and care isn’t just a one-day a year job.
And finally, my most important reason. Valentine’s Day shouldn’t be taken so seriously because we should be demonstrating that same love and care every day, to everyone in our lives.
The people you love should know that you love them regardless of the existence of a designated day to show it.
Bridget Goedke
Viewpoints Editor
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