5 Ways to Get Through Being Alone on Valentine’s Day After a Divorce

To put it lightly, Valentine’s Day after divorce can be complicated. Many would agree that being single or being alone on a day meant for love can feel like a world-ending catastrophe with the punchline of every joke ending in, “Actually, it’s Singles Awareness Day.”

In reality, Valentine’s Day may serve as a painful reminder of your former flame and past shared traditions. On the other hand, it can be a relief to just spend the holiday alone, not worrying about orchestrating a romantic gesture that you were not passionate about anyway.

Whether you embrace all things Cupid and chocolate-covered strawberries, or the thought of roses and conversation hearts give you the ick, here are five ways to make Valentine’s Day more bearable after divorce:

1. Celebrate with your friends instead

If you know that being alone is not best for you, have a get-together with your friends! Head out to a bar or book a private room for karaoke. If you would rather stay in, play games together at home. Enjoy your time together because no matter what, nurturing your friendships is an act of love.

2. Make it all about your kids

Who said that February 14 is just for couples? Heart-shaped pizza tastes just as good with your kids as it does with a partner, so eat it with them instead! If you have young kids, do some fun crafts, and make each other cards. Bake festive cupcakes or cookies together, take them out to dinner—whatever you all enjoy. Make these new traditions to reinvent your perspective on the holiday.

3. Eat your heart out

Take yourself to your favorite restaurant and order whatever you want. Get drinks, appetizers, a main course, dessert—the whole nine yards. The time to treat yourself to a lavish feast is now! Alternatively, if wine and fancy caviar are not your cup of tea, order the takeout meal of your dreams! If you are craving a cheeseburger and fries, indulge yourself. You deserve it.

4. Go out and make it a self-care day

Head over to the spa and get your nails done–maybe even spend a little extra for that luxe hot-stone massage during your pedicure. Stop by your local florist and have them arrange a luscious bouquet for you. Then, head into the bakery that you always pass by but never go inside of. Those scrumptious-looking pastries in the window have been calling your name, after all!

5. Stay in and make it a self-care day

Obviously, self-care does not look the same for everyone, so if you want to stay in, make sure you fill your day with activities you love. Try pulling out your exercise equipment and following along with an at-home workout. Read a book and do a face mask. Pop some popcorn and have a movie marathon with yourself or with your friends. This can be a chance to finally watch the movies your former spouse never would!

Valentine’s Day after divorce can be tough, but that does not mean you have to go back to your ex to have a good day. If you have any urge to call your former spouse, resist it. Focus on pouring your love onto your friends, your family, and most importantly, yourself. In the end, hopefully your biggest Valentine’s Day worry can be trying to snag the half-priced candy on February 15 before it is all gone.