It’s January and we’re just weeks away from Valentines Day. The stores are stocking up with holiday chocolates and red velvet candy boxes, all while people are still reviewing their New Year’s resolutions.
As if the pressure from the holiday season wasn’t enough, happy couples are thinking about February 14, while singles are starting to dread Valentines Day and anxiety is mounting.
So, be gentle on yourself and consider these tips to help the month slide into Valentines, regardless of your relationship status and however you decide to celebrate the day.
1. You don’t need a date. It’s not the end of the world if you’re dateless on Valentines Day. If you’re in a relationship that has run its course, don’t be afraid to let it go. Some stay together, using Valentines Day as a measuring stick. Wondering whether the guy you’re dating will ask you out or if your beau is ready to say, “I love you” is enough to make anyone feel anxious. You’re better off alone than in a relationship that’s on it’s way out the door.
2. Plan a girls’ night out. Whether you schedule a night on the town and wear black if you’re in mourning, or red if you’re feeling hot, there’s nothing like a good dose of girlfriend power to help you enjoy the season. Celebrate by dressing up, having lunch with the girls, going to a movie and creating a party of your own.
3. It’s a big, digital dating playing field. If your friends aren’t fixing you up anymore and your goal is to be in a relationship, perhaps it’s time to give your online dating profile a digital facelift. Know that both men and women are logging on for love more often in the month of January, than any other month of the year. It goes hand-in-hand with joining a gym, going on a diet and other New Year’s resolutions.
Markus Frind, founder of Plenty of Fish, reports that their site sees a 20 percent increase in signups right after Christmas every year. According to Frind, POF has already seen a 22 percent increase in memberships in 2013.
Dr. Neil Clark Warren, founder of eHarmony concurs and says, “We see a dramatic increase in subscribers from Christmas to Valentines Day. Putting people together for a lifetime loving relationship is the most underestimated challenge of the human race.” Warren advises you take the time to get to know yourself and to know the person you want to be in a relationship with to share your life.
CNN also reports that some dating sites saw an increase of up to 350 percent in sign-ups during the past two months, while Facebook reports that the majority (45 percent) of their relationship status changes made in 2012 moved to “single.”
4. Talk about gift giving. If you’re in a relationship and are expecting a diamond ring and your guy shows up with a spice rack, the conversation might get cold instantly. Understand that Valentines is just one day of the year. Drop hints if you like chocolate or lingerie but set your expectations more realistically. A music CD or half price tickets to a play or sporting event won’t break the bank and will show you put thought into the day. If you’re not a fan of expensive prix fixe menus, instead celebrate the evening with In-Room Dining at home.
5. Fall in love with yourself first. The best love affair you can have is with yourself. When a man sees a confident woman, he’s drawn to her like a magnet, regardless of her dress size. Stare in the mirror and tell yourself you’re beautiful just the way you are, no matter how complicated it may feel at the moment.
