Valentine’s Day Isn’t For Everyone
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and while some are heart-eyed, lovey-dovey, and ready for romance, for many it is just any other day. And it is totally fine if it’s not your thing.
Valentine’s Day has quickly become a commercialised holiday within Ireland, particularly over the last number of years. The surge of Valentine’s Day collections, romantic getaways and home decor promoted by brands can leave us feeling pressured to buy into another holiday. Some people love this day of the year when they can do something extra special for someone they care about, whilst others dread the thought of seeing everyone’s soppy displays of affection.
There sometimes seems to be an air of shame and embarrassment for the singletons in the lead-up to Valentine’s Day, and there are plenty of rom-coms to back up this statement, with the desperate rush to find someone just to feel a little bit better about yourself for this one day of the year. The whole idea that you need a romantic partner to make Valentine’s Day special? Ridiculous. It can make you feel like you’re missing out on something or not good enough, and quite frankly it is absurd.
The focus on Valentine’s tends to be on the romantic side of things, but what about the love for your friends, family members, and most importantly, yourself? Love comes in many shapes and sizes, and Valentine’s Day should celebrate all kinds of love. The surge of Galentine’s Day celebrations is a welcomed thought, friends celebrating friends and spending the 13th doing something fun together instead of being caught up on not having a significant other.
If you have been feeling the pressure this Valentine’s Day, or any other day of the year for that matter, remember you are not alone. Look around to your friends and family members and instead show your appreciation for them. Even better, spend the day doing thoughtful things for you. Give yourself a pamper day, take yourself out for lunch, or even just try to speak to yourself in a nicer way for one day.
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be this big, stressful thing. Celebrate love in your own way, whether it’s with your friends, family, or just giving yourself some well-deserved self-love. Let go of the pressures and enjoy the day however feels best for you.