Valentine’s or Galentines? Options for Singles on Valentine’s Day

By Grace O. Akinfenwa

Yet another Valentine’s Day has arrived. Since this day signifies when couples exchange signs of love and affection as a token of appreciation, it often causes single people to feel excluded.

Valentine’s Day can be celebrated platonically, romantically, or with self-love and is not limited to couples or romantic relationships alone. It also represents a day when people celebrate the bond they have together, promote compassion, and recognize the importance of relationships.

However, more and more people choose the Valentine for Singles approach, where they share what they do and what to do on Valentine’s Day and prioritize friendships and self-love as other forms of love.

An anonymous sophomore nursing major at SWAU shares her thoughts on Valentine’s Day as a single person, stating that Valentine’s Day can feel like a reminder of what she doesn’t have.

“There shouldn’t be only one day to express love to your loved ones. I feel like people should constantly express love daily, not just on Valentine’s Day. Nevertheless, instead of dwelling on it, I use it as an opportunity to treat myself nicely and show self-love.”

Sometimes, because some people might not be satisfied with the idea that there should be a specific day to show people love, Valentine’s Day is also seen as an opportunity for self-care and appreciation.

Esther Obrimah and Racheal Muturi, a junior criminal justice major and junior nursing major, state that they don’t do anything special on Valentine’s Day and just see it as another day.

“This year, I am doing something different by spending time with one of my friends,” say Obrimah. “I am going out to watch a movie and get food afterward.”

Among the usual celebrations of love—receiving gifts, going out with significant others, etc.—here are some suggestions from single individuals on what to do on Valentine’s Day:

“Instead of feeling lonely, treat yourself to a nice meal or some nice retail shopping,” Obrimah suggests. “If you have friends, plan something with them to do on that day. If those aren’t possible, go outside and enjoy nature. Take a hike or rock climb. It is a chance to create beautiful memories.”

“Single people should help their friends who are in happy relationships on Valentine’s Day, whether it’s a girl or boy, to get their partner a gift or gifts, as long as they don’t have a problem with it,” says Nigil Coleman, a sophomore kinesiology major. He also said that you can choose to celebrate the day by being nice to people whether or not they are mean.

Valentines for Singles is not about feeling excluded. It celebrates self-love and relationships with friends, family, and oneself. It gives people the chance to pamper themselves, go on to new experiences, and get in touch with people who have similar interests. As Valentine’s Day draws closer, Galantine’s Day can also be a superb alternative to embrace. With this, people are able to discover happiness in being single and independent.

Share this: