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Valentine’s Day Ideas For Singles (That Don’t Totally Suck) in 2021

February is right around the corner — and that means Valentine’s Day is almost here. Under normal circumstances, the holiday that’s also known as “Singles Awareness Day” can be a bummer if you’re not coupled up. But during a pandemic, it might become even more evident that you’re on your own, which can make it hard to feel anything but bitter.

Still, it’s important to remember that you’re not actually alone. Between 40% and 50% of marriages end in divorce in the United States. And despite the fact that 88% of people nationwide marry for love, being part of a couple on February 14 doesn’t necessarily guarantee you’ll have your own Happily Ever After. For many of us, Valentine’s Day can never really live up to the idealized version of the holiday we’ve created in our heads. And in some cases, enjoying this day by yourself can actually be for the best. After all, you can buy yourself any present, spend the day doing whatever you want, and you don’t have to be disappointed by forgetfulness or thoughtlessness.

But while you may know in your own mind that spending V-Day alone isn’t actually the end of the world, it may take a little work to convince your heart of that. It’ll help if you have a plan to look forward to. With that in mind, here are some brilliant Valentine’s Day ideas for singles that don’t suck — and that you can safely try even during our ongoing health crisis.

Drop Off Valentines to Loved Ones

Although you may not really be able to gather with friends or family this Valentine’s Day, you can still express your feelings by sending out old-school valentines! You can always send them through the mail if you give yourself enough time, but it’s also fun to drop them off in person (while wearing a mask, of course). If you have some free time on Valentine’s Day, send your loved ones a text and drive around to drop off their cards. Even if you see them only through the window, you’ll get a boost of serotonin and can blow them a kiss from afar!

Send Flowers to Yourself

Giving back to others can help take your mind off things, but you shouldn’t forget to care for yourself. Don’t wait for someone else to bring you a bouquet; instead, order one for yourself. Around 37% of flowers purchased are used as gifts, so take this opportunity to pick out the blooms you love most. This is a great excuse to bring some brightness into your home and remind yourself what a gift you really are.

Organize a Galentine’s Day Zoom

Galentine’s Day, as we know it from the TV series Parks and Recreation, takes place on February 13. This year, it’s on a Saturday — which is ideal if you want to host a virtual get-together with your best gal pals. You can organize a Zoom call for brunch and toast to each other through a screen with your favorite bottomless drinks. Gift-giving is traditional, so you could send over a digital gift card or arrange for a doorstep delivery that will be sure to bring a smile to your friends’ faces. Really, there’s nothing like celebrating the strong women in your life, so don’t lose sight of platonic love this year.

Order Takeout From Your Favorite Restaurant

Although many restaurants have reopened for dining, you might not feel comfortable going to your favorite eatery — especially if you know you’ll be surrounded by happy couples. Ordering takeout is a great way to support restaurants in need while savoring your favorite flavors from the comfort of your own home (and while dining in your pajamas). Many dining locations offer Valentine’s Day menus or specials, so be sure to ask about them when you order!

Have Your Chart Done or Tarot Cards Read

Wondering what the stars (or the cards) hold for your future? You can virtually arrange to have your astrological chart done or your tarot cards read this Valentine’s Day! Even if you don’t put much stock into these ancient practices, it can be a lot of fun to see what resonates for you. While this can be a good opportunity to ask about what’s in store for your love life, these appointments can also provide some guidance for personal and professional growth — and if we’re focusing on ourselves this Valentine’s Day, it makes sense to prepare for what might be ahead.

Have an At-Home Spa Day

Personal pampering never goes out of style. Although self-care can have many different meanings, there’s nothing wrong with enjoying a relaxing spa day at home. Draw yourself a bath with some Epsom salts, give yourself a mani-pedi, or enjoy a face mask while you sip on some lemon water. Give yourself permission to take the entire afternoon for rest and relaxation without any guilt. You’ll come out the other side with a glowing complexion and some colorful nails.

Have a Movie Marathon

Spending the day (and night) on the couch can be a fun way to spend this holiday. After all, it might be similar to what you’d do even if you weren’t single — except you’ll have total control over the remote. Seize the opportunity to indulge in your favorite cheesy movies or a marathon of a beloved TV show. Whether it’s a trashy reality series, classic rom-coms, or Disney films from your childhood, you call the shots as far as the entertainment is concerned.

Get Busy… in the Kitchen

If you enjoy cooking or baking, Valentine’s Day can be a good motivator to try out a new savory recipe (for one) or to pop a tray of cookies into the oven. You don’t have to get fancy, but it can be fun to pick up special ingredients from the store for your night in. You could even arrange a recipe swap with friends and check in with them to see how their time in the kitchen went. That way, you can open a bottle of wine (over FaceTime) and “cheers” your glasses to an unconventional yet delicious virtual date. Alternatively, you could even take an online cooking class to learn something new!

Stay Off Social Media (and Dating Apps)

Social media can be fun at times, but it can also be rather toxic when you aren’t in a good headspace. If you know that Valentine’s Day will bring about feelings of jealousy, sadness, and loneliness for you, it might be best to disable your social media apps for the day and focus on doing what actually feels good — rather than experience FOMO. For that matter, you might want to stay off dating apps. If you’re looking for a self-confidence boost, try doing an at-home workout or working on an enjoyable project instead. Spending hours swiping on profiles and making small talk with strangers online probably won’t fulfill you in the way you’re hoping for.

In the end, it’s important to remember that Valentine’s Day is just like any other day. It doesn’t have any bearing on your worth or what you bring to the table. If you’re single this year, just like so many other people are, remember that you aren’t alone — and that there are plenty of things you can do to pass the time in positive ways.

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