Like many, I’m single on Valentine’s Day. Like some, I’m completely at peace with it. But unlike most, I’ve planned an entire day dedicated to treating myself the way I truly deserve.
Valentine’s is an odd holiday. There are expectations between partners, friends and, to some extent, with yourself. You feel the need to plan and execute perfectly, to purchase gifts and organize a dinner or even to perform a big romantic gesture prepared weeks in advance. To show someone you care, you seemingly must sacrifice funds and time for it to go perfectly. We shower our loved ones with those little things they point out at stores, their favourite desserts or with time off. The list goes on, and yet one thing threads it together; taking a day and planning completely around another. We use that day as an excuse to appreciate someone to the fullest.
However, without a romantic partner on Feb. 14, that well of affection remains bottled up with nowhere to go. I find myself sitting at home, maybe watching a movie, enjoying an unimpressive snack and texting my grandma an “I love you.” Instead of filling my day with flowers for another, I walk to class and back and vacuum; I suspect that you do the same. Instead of seeing this year’s holiday as something out of reach, change your mindset and get selfish.
We use Valentine’s Day as a way to prove our commitment, our understanding and our passion for one another. So, this year, let’s not forget the one person you should shower in gifts before anyone else — yourself.
Take yourself out for a meal
It’s one of those things we typically do in cliques of ravenous, hungover pancake eaters but rarely alone: brunch. Rather than a fancy candlelit dinner, opt for the opposite dining experience. Grab a seat, bring a book and buy the full breakfast with extra avocado. I recommend Cora’s on a budget (also, it’s delicious) or The Cheeky Neighbour Diner for an elevated experience and great vegan options. Take your time and appreciate getting to know yourself.
Treat yourself to gifts
I won’t allow anything less than three gifts for myself, budget allowing. This works especially well if your love language is gift-giving. Think about what you’d want from a loved one, or what you’d like to give to your partner, and pass that love onto yourself. I’d recommend looking at a record store, vintage shop, jewelry store or plant store. Or, if you’re a practical date, get yourself some classy groceries. Take into account how you treat others and shove it back in your own face. Stroll down Spring Garden Road and stop at Lululemon or Taz Records to demonstrate your self-love.
Pick a solo activity
Think about your favourite weekend tradition, the spot around town you love or an activity you’ve always wanted to sign up for and pen it into your calendar. If it feels uncomfortable going to a paint-and-sip solo, don’t let it get you down. A single Valentine’s Day activity shows the world, and yourself, your self-respect. Dalhousie societies consistently run movie nights, crafting events and other free drop-ins. I also recommend spending a morning enjoying one of Halifax’s farmers’ markets, taking a walk along the waterfront and enjoying a ferry ride to Dartmouth. Or, make it a group date with friends and go to a trampoline park or Activate for a few hours of fun.
Evening drink
A date isn’t a date without a drink. Head to the bars for a quick cocktail, listen to some live music and appreciate the people watching. If you’re up for a club scene, enjoy shamelessly dancing to trashy club hits. If not, check out a dessert bar or Flynn’s for a late-night treat. The best nights end in bed in your nice pyjamas with tea and a story to tell. So stay safe, have fun and appreciate the wind-down.
Creating the vibe
The vibe of your solo date is all about the effort you put into it. Start by waking up early and taking a long “everything” shower. Pick an outfit that turns heads, including your own. Capture photos of each part of the day, and wrap up the night with your favourite movie, a new book or some good fanfic (I don’t judge!).
Take the time to listen to yourself, and follow your heart. If these suggestions are not your dream date, make up your own instead. Recognize that how you love, how you want to be loved and how you love yourself are all valid, valuable and vital to self-confidence and self-kindness. Enjoy the day and yourself equally.
Recent Comments