Ah, the day of Saint Valentine. The chocolates. The doilies. The bow-and-arrow-toting winged babes. What could be better? It's an entire day devoted to expressing your undying love to a mutually feeling significant other in that perfect romantic-yet-personalized way. Okay, okay, we all know that Valentine's Day can suck, no matter what your love situation may be. Yet, while February 14th can prove to be quite the challenge, Hershey's and Hallmark don't have to be the only ones to benefit. With the following advice, you can convert V-Day from one big disappointment-fest into the best day in an otherwise crappy month.
Single: As tempting as it sometimes may be to not-so-subtly shoot glares at every couple you see, reveling in hatred for Valentine's Day will not make you feel better. Remember how the Grinch's heart grew three sizes after he stopped being a huge asshole? For the holiday that's all about hearts (or at least paper cut-out versions of them), the best approach if you're not seeing anyone special is to remember: You are not alone. If seeing pairs get mushy makes you want to gag, avoid any locales that are assured to be Couple Central on Valentine's Day (romantic restaurants are a prime example). Call some unattached friends to partake in activities that you know will make you happy, and if a box of Franzia is involved, so be it. If you make a true effort to avoid sulking by yourself in your bedroom, Valentine's Day will be, at the very least, a great Thursday night.
In a Relationship: You may think you should take the "why should we need one day to show how much we care about each other?" road. But remember, even if your S.O. might claim to hate it, everyone knows it's Valentine's Day, and a little something never hurts. Some partners are more particular than others, and you are the best person to gauge what your honey is expecting. But no matter who it is, a last-minute heart-shaped balloon and wilted flowers from Fro Gro are almost as bad as nothing at all. Go for something that's specific to memories or jokes you share, or plan a date to somewhere unexpected - a memorable walk in an interesting locale beats even the best prix fixe menu. V-Day doesn't necessarily call for an extravagant gift, so put time and effort before your wallet. Just do something. Seriously. You won't regret it.
It's Complicated: Valentine's Day can make a thorny situation even pricklier by forcing couples to answer that time-old question: "What are we?" The prospect of a romantic date on Valentine's Day might make some want to give their "friends with benefits" more legit titles. V-Day can serve as the perfect platform for a declaration of commitment. It can also, however, be regarded as just another day in the love triangle/unrequited love situation/open relationship, especially if things aren't sailing so smoothly. Regardless, choose your viewpoint in advance and see it through. By deciding beforehand how to deal with this day, you can avoid letting shiny red window displays dictate your relationship decisions. And if you're planning on cutting things off, be kind. Save it for the 15th.
