Celebrated with chocolate, teddy bears and flowers, Valentine’s Day is a holiday to share the love with those close to you. Even though the holiday is usually celebrated with your significant other, there are no rules that apply to who you can show your appreciation for.  

People tend to not like the holiday. The only reason I can think of for people not liking it is that they’re single and bitter. However, you don’t have to be taken to enjoy the holiday.  

Starting when I was young, my mom always bought me chocolate and gifts in celebration of the holiday. Beginning a couple of years ago, I began giving my mom gifts for the holiday as well. Even though my mom and I aren’t each other’s Valentines, we still find a way to make the holiday work.  

I may be biased, however: my birthday falls on Valentine’s day. It is a special day for me, and those around me make it apparent. They get me extra gifts, balloons, candy etc.  But just because the holiday falls on my birthday doesn’t mean that it’s the only reason that I like it.  

I’m a huge believer in love. I think the holiday is a sweet and special way to show love to your close ones. If you don’t have anybody you’d like to share the holiday with, it wouldn’t be the end of the world to share it with yourself. 

According to a study done by Gourmetgiftbaskets.com, 15% of women buy themselves flowers on Valentine’s Day. It’s not such a bad thing to realize your self-worth. Take the night to pamper yourself. Enjoy yourself by doing a face mask, taking a bath with a bath-bomb, painting your nails, etc.  

For the guys, do your favorite hobby, play a couple of video games, etc. For both parties, possibly invite your friends over. Go out for a nice meal or watch a movie. This holiday isn’t just to celebrate a boyfriend or girlfriend. It’s to celebrate your appreciation for others and even yourself.  

 For those with significant others, you can go out on a nice date, give and receive flowers, eat chocolate and light a nice-smelling candle. Tell each other how happy you are to have them in your life. It will mean a lot.  

Not only is the holiday a way to spread love and admiration, it boosts the economy. In 2018, the projected amount spent for Valentine’s Day in the U.S. was 19.6 billion. 19.6 billion for one day of love.  

The holiday only lasts one day. Why ruin it for those who like the holiday and want to show admiration? Get over the self-pity. If you can’t make it a day about a loved one, make it for yourself.