To the girl without a Valentine, please remember these important things:
1. You are loved
I hope you know your value doesn't change whether you are in a relationship or not-you are of worth. You are important. You are loved. Some people have a significant other to tell and show them they are incredible. But just because you don't, doesn't mean you are any less. You may not get a box of chocolates, a dozen roses or an oversized teddy bear, but please ignore the voice inside telling you that you don't matter.
Your worth comes from deep within you-from your unique gifts and contributions and your heart. You are of great value and importance with or without a Valentine.
2. Valentine's Day can still be awesome
I have never had a Valentine on Valentine's Day, but it has become one of my favorite days. Here are a few ways I have spent the holiday:
"Heart attack" people you love
One year I cut out paper hearts, made cookies and "heart-attacked" people I love. I covered their doors in the paper hearts and left cookies on their doorsteps with notes of appreciation and love. Showing your love, even if it's not to a boyfriend, is one sure way to make Valentine's Day awesome.
Do something for someone who feels lonely
Another year I went out to dinner with an older gentleman whose wife had passed away. I could see in his smile how grateful he was to have company on the holiday.
Create a romantic date for an older couple
One of my favorite Valentine's Day memories is when once I made dinner with my friends for an older couple who lived next door. We coordinated with the husband to surprise his wife, and they were both so thrilled. Tears came to their eyes as they returned home that evening to a fancy, candle-lit dinner set for two.
ROAD TRIP!
Jump in the car with your best girlfriends and hit the road. Most years this is how my Valentine's day ends up, and there is nothing better than rocking out to the radio, chatting about boys and eating junk food with your BFFs.
Remember: Valentine's Day can be a memorable and amazing day, even without a Valentine.
3. Don't be desperate
It's okay to want a Valentine. It's natural. We all want to love and be loved. We crave connection and intimacy. Please remember, though, you don't have to settle. You deserve someone wonderful who treats you well. It's better to be Valentine-less than to be with someone who doesn't really love and respect you.
4. Don't give up
Use this day to reflect on your life. If you want a Valentine next year, what can you do to make that happen? How can you improve and better yourself?
Be careful not to discourage or depress yourself, but reignite within you the hope to fall in love. Set healthy goals so that when you meet a handsome, respectful guy you can be confident, strong and ready for a relationship.
Never give up hope. You may not have a Valentine this year, but you are still valuable, loved and important. This holiday can be awesome! Enjoy being single! And if true love is your goal, keep working and improving; there's always next year.
