“I can fix him.” “We can fix this.” “It’ll work out. ” How about we focus on fixing the relationship that truly matters: the one with ourselves.
Valentine’s Day has always been synonymous with romantic relationships, rightfully so. Expensive gifts, surprise proposals, and unexpected confessions define the holiday.
Too often, people stay in relationships just to say they’re in one. Being single on Feb. 14 means you’ve somehow “failed.” As if it’s a status symbol, having a partner seems more important than having a genuine connection with someone.
People will post their “love of my life” stories on Instagram, knowing that they are one bad text away from blocking them. But don’t feel too bad for doing it because this has become normalized.
Most of us miss the deadline to find love anyway–guess we’ll just pay full price for our chocolates.
Obviously, I love the idea of Valentine’s Day–celebrating the people you love, not only just a significant other but family too. However, the toxicity that comes with it should be addressed as well.
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be about finding love. That’s not the only narrative that should be pushed. Why not focus inward? Instead of stressing over what’s missing beside us, let’s put that same energy into giving ourselves some extra love.
When you think of self-love, you probably think of treating yourself with spa days, sleeping in, or buying yourself chocolates.
It’s not a terrible idea since Walmart chocolates are 25% off right now…
But self-love is more about being easier on yourself. We wouldn’t let our friends talk about themselves the way we talk about ourselves, but somehow we think it’s fine to beat ourselves up even for the smallest of things–like a bad grade or a stupid mistake.
Give yourself attention. Yes, I know it sounds a little corny, but give yourself the same care and attention that you’d give to someone you love, to yourself. Instead of asking, “Why am I still single?” ask, “How can I be a better partner to myself?” Because if you can’t love yourself, who will?
Go celebrate Valentine’s Day with your friends, family, or significant other, but know that if you don’t have anyone to spend this holiday with, it’s okay.
The love you give yourself is non-negotiable–nothing else will ever be more important.
