We are in a unique time of life when it seems like all of our friends are dating, engaged or married. While many of us strive to be independent women, there are times where being single can leave us feeling unworthy, lonely and less than. Feelings of being left out become significantly amplified during February, a month commonly associated with love.
How exactly can I, as a single gal, spend this notoriously romantic month? Don’t let the commercials fool you. Love is much more than a box of chocolates, a bouquet of flowers and having a significant other isn’t the only way to have love. Love is for everyone and takes many forms. So, if you’re single, don’t think that the “love in the air” isn’t for you. If you’re looking for ways to celebrate, consider the following.
- Treat Yourself
-
Don’t have a significant other to spoil? Spoil yourself! Whether it’s that cute outfit, amazing art set or album you’ve been anticipating, take it off your wishlist and put it in your cart! I’m not telling you to break the bank. As a college student, I know how important being cautious with money is, but don’t just buy yourself some chocolate and call it a day. If you want to be a bit more responsible, buy something you’ve needed for a long time, like a new pair of tennis shoes or a bag for your school books.
Of course, love isn’t just shown through purchases. In fact, it has more to do with investing time. Invest time in yourself this month. Is there a long-beloved hobby that you’ve put off, for the sake of a million other things? Make those millions of other things wait and DO IT! Listen to music at full volume! Paint what you’ve always wanted to, binge your most anticipated tv show! Show love to yourself by doing what you love. Most importantly, remember you’re worth it!
- Plan to Spend a Day With Family and Friends
-
Our time with loved ones can often be taken for granted. Consider inviting a group of friends and family for a game night. Even with the current pandemic, there are plenty of ways to connect virtually with people outside of your household. Zoom, Discord and Skype allow screen sharing for games, movies and chatting. For example, you can purchase a variety of party games from Jackbox, which will allow you and your friends to play together with only your shared screen and your smartphones. Jackbox games seem to always be a huge hit, but the cost may be off-putting. Skribbl.io and Kahoot are free options that may be more appealing to you and your party. A favorite group activity of mine is making your own Kahoot with trivia questions relating to your friends. If you’re worried about internet connections, make your celebration an event for those in your household. A movie night, karaoke night or board game night can be thrown together in a matter of minutes and leave you and your family with memories for a lifetime.
- Check in on Your Loved Ones
-
Show that you care to those who may need a little extra love this year. For some, of our loved ones who may be far away or unable to connect with us virtually. The pandemic has been particularly lonely. Look for creative ways to check in on your loved ones while keeping them safe. Leave a card or a small gift for a lonely neighbor or call a family member who lives alone. You may think it is a small gesture, but it could truly mean the world to them.
Being single does not exclude you from the celebration of love. While this month may look different than you expected, don’t despair for what isn’t, but rather celebrate what is. Cherish your loved ones and make time for them. If the pandemic has shown us anything, it’s that we never know what is around the corner. It’s more important now than ever to send love to those around you and don’t forget about yourself. Consider celebrating in one or more of the aforementioned activities above or get creative and construct new traditions. Break the mold, celebrate the way you want and emulate love in any way you can!