Valentine's Day is right around the corner, which means you're about to be inundated by commercials for jewelry and chocolates, and stores will soon have entire aisles bedecked in red and pink! If you're single, Valentine's Day might rub salt an already existing wound. After all, society makes such a big deal out of it! But there's no reason that you cannot enjoy Cupid's holiday even if you're solo (and perhaps even more because you are!)
Be Realistic
It's easy to pour over all the happy posts on Valentine's Day, which will surely includes gifts and smiling faces and might even depict a few engagement proposals. But remember that February 14th isn't all it's cracked up to be.
Some couples are separated due to deployments and other issues. Other people receive no gifts from their partners. Many people expect proposals or something else only to be let down.
And those happy photos? They show a couple on one day of the year, even if you know they're miserable and bickering the other 364 days. Those gifts and dates might be apologies or last-ditch efforts to make it work. Remember, the grass isn't always greener on the other side!
To Hook Up Or Not
Valentine's Day might typically be about romance, but what if that's not what you want? That's okay, too! Thanks to Tinder and similar services, you can match with someone in your area, schedule a date and knock boots without any strings.
So what if you're single? You can still have fun!
Treat Yourself
Just because you're single on February 14th doesn't mean that you have to stay home. You can enjoy your favorite restaurant, ice cream parlor or coffee shop. Hit up your favorite bar while you're dressed to the nines and enjoy the glances you get. Note that you might want to avoid going out for dinner if you don't want to see all the happy couples or compete with them for reservations.
Another idea? Invite your favorite ladies out for a Galentine's Brunch like Leslie Knope from Parks and Recreation! Exchange small gifts or remind these women why they're your favorite as you munch on pancakes and bask in love!
...Or someone Else
To piggyback on the last idea, we suggest that you treat someone else. Do you know someone who is single or can't be with their loved one on this day? Invite them out or make a gift basket. Is there an opportunity to volunteer with infants, pets, or people who could use your attention? The busier you are, the less time you'll have to attend your own pity party!
Gifts That Give Back
Why not buy yourself a little (or big) something? It might be a box of chocolates or flowers just to brighten up your home. Perhaps there's a new piece of tech you've had your eye on, a bracelet or something else that will brighten your day. The nice thing about buying it for yourself? You know exactly what you want, which makes you both the perfect giver and receiver.
If you really want to spoil yourself for Valentine's Day, consider a new sex toy! Are you new to toys? A bullet vibe or powerful G-spot toy like Mona can be quite versatile. Do you want to knock your socks off? The Magic Wand Original is calling your name. Want something really unique? How about a dildo made from stone or a smart toy that works with your phone? Don't forget a little erotica, too!
Set The Scene
From rose petals to massage candles, there are a number of ways for you to create a romantic mood to enjoy with a partner. But having no partner means that every orgasm can be your own, and you can be as selfish as you want! So create a sensual scene by:
- Lighting candles or burning incense so the room smells great
- Drawing a bubble bath
- Pouring a glass of wine, champagne, or even a hot mug of tea
- Putting on your favorite tunes
- Wrapping yourself up in a silky smooth or warm and fuzzy robe (socks and slippers, too!)
- Popping in a sexy DVD or opening up an erotic book
Whatever makes you feel sexy, pampered and aroused goes. No one else is around to judge you or argue over the soundtrack!
Get to Know Yourself
There's something about masturbation that's wonderful. There's no pressure to orgasm if you don't want to or have trouble. You just do what feels right and good. But because you don't have to perform and the person operating the wheels knows you so well, chances are you will climax.
Don't want to shower, shave or even brush your teeth? That's fine! No one will see your morning hair and crusty eyes. You can do you right now, with only a moment's notice, and feel no shame or guilt.
Too tired to get someone else off? Well, you don't have to! Want to arch your back, make weird noises or masturbate while you chow down on some popcorn? Feel free!
And if you want to finish after a single orgasm or attempt a marathon session before your vibrator dies, the choice is all yours.
Be selfish. You deserve it.
Not Just On Valentine's Day
The truth is, you shouldn't need a special day to express your love to someone, nor should you need a holiday to remind you to treat yourself and allow yourself to relax. But the hustle and bustle of life mean that we often push these things to the wayside, so a holiday does serve as a reminder that forces us to make time.
Chances are, you'll feel better if you take a little time for yourself more than once a year!
You can live through February 14th miserably or give yourself a reason to smile. And as February 15th rolls around, you'll be free to breathe a little easier (and buy some of that discounted candy!) having survived yet another Valentine's Day.
By: Adriana Ravenlust
Follow on Twitter @adriana_r