Valentine's Day 2021 - How to Celebrate Alone or With a Partner

By Dr. Joti Samra, CEO & Founder of the Psychological Health & Safety (PH&S) Clinic and MyWorkplaceHealth

Valentine’s Day 2021 – Celebrate Alone or With a Partner

The last twelve months have been incredibly challenging and for some of us, that has meant spending a lot more time alone or possibly some extra strain between you and your partner. Maybe you’ve been separated for extended periods of time due to quarantine and lockdown restrictions or maybe you’ve been stepping on each other’s toes both working from home. This may make Valentine’s Day 2021 a little bit more challenging.

Valentine’s Day is approaching quickly and there may be some mixed feelings about it this year. For some, it might feel extra hard for those who are single. Couples may feel like they need the excuse to celebrate their love but are burdened by restrictions. So, why don’t we reimagine Valentine’s Day this year and get creative with how we spend it, regardless of whether or not we are in a relationship! 

Single on Valentine’s Day 2021

If you’re feeling bad about being single this Valentine’s Day, take a step back and remind yourself how challenging it has been to meet people this year. Be gentle with yourself. 

It might feel extra hard to be alone this Valentine’s Day particularly if you live alone and have been spending lots of time alone already in the past 12 months. But know that you’re not alone in this feeling. 

So, what can one do instead of dwelling on the feelings of loneliness? 

No matter how cliche it may sound, do something nice for yourself. Treat yourself or do something that makes you feel special. It really does work. (And this year, Valentine’s Day is on #SelfCareSunday). Have an at-home spa day, take a nice bubble bath with your favourite drink, take the time to do your 12 step skincare routine, light some scented candles and read a good book. Whatever it is, take the day to do something just for you. 

Also, consider taking a minute to boost your self-esteem. That not only means to remind yourself that you’re not alone in your feelings but also actively remind yourself of the reasons you are loveable. Consider writing down a few things you love about yourself so you can return to them throughout the day when you’re feeling down. If you’re feeling stuck, ask a few of your close friends what they appreciate about you (but do make sure to come up with a few of your own ideas). 

If you’re feeling like being alone all day is going to be too challenging, spend time with someone you love (virtually or in another safe manner). Remember there are so many different types of love and romantic love is not inherently more valuable. 

Creative Date Ideas for Valentine’s Day 2021

Get creative this year with the way you spend Valentine’s Day and do something special with your loved ones. It doesn’t have to be elaborate or expensive, just meaningful. You might be stuck at home but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun and spend some quality time together. Consider doing something you haven’t been doing together all quarantine to make the day special. Here are some ideas; 

1 - Get out of the city and experience nature

• If you’re like me and live in the big city, it can be nice to get out and away from the noise and the people and all the grey concrete. If you can, consider finding a secluded place in nature to have a picnic. Or go for a hike and have a hot chocolate (or a beer) at the top.

2 - Make your favorite meal together. Or order in from your favourite restaurant or from that fancy place you never order from. 

• Also consider making dinner something special by making it an indoor picnic in your living room, on the patio, or at the local park if it’s safe to do so. 
• Maybe you want to dip things in chocolate for some fancy fun with food. 
• Consider taking a cooking class.
• Make breakfast in bed.

 3 - Crack open your favorite drink, make some fancy cocktails, or dig out that fancy drink you've been cellaring.

• Also, consider taking a mixology class together online to learn some new fancy cocktails.  

4 - Have a self-care day together

• Do facials or skincare, paint your nails or a foot bath. Have a bath big enough for two? Give each other a nice massage. 

5 - Do something creative together

Final Thoughts

Remember that Valentine’s Day is just another day. Be gentle with yourself and let yourself feel your feelings if you need to. Instead, get creative and find a nice way to spend the day regardless of whether or not you’re in a partnership or single. 

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