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How to Not Be Bitter on Valentine’s Day

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Kirsten Hoffman Student Contributor, University of Notre Dame
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ND Contributor Student Contributor, University of Notre Dame
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Notre Dame chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

I feel bad for February 14th. Over the years, it has gotten a bad rap. It is associated with sappy and mushy public displays of affection. Meanwhile, all of the single people are left to eat pints of Ben and Jerry’s while watching the 2010 movie Valentine’s Day starring too many famous actors and actresses to mention. Personally, I think all of this negativity comes from the fact that people are being too narrow-minded.

Instead of just accepting the fact they are alone on this romantic holiday, they try and ruin the happiness of people that actually are in relationships. I’m not advocating for the sappy couples – trust me, I’m as single as ever (except for my relationship with Adam Levine, but it’s so low key that he doesn’t know yet). I’m content with being single. Valentine’s day isn’t an excuse to be upset about being single. Sure, it would be nice to get flowers or chocolate, but to be honest that would be nice on any day of the year.

This year, instead of sulking, take the initiative to make someone else’s day amazing. Go out to dinner with a bunch of your friends! Bake heart-shaped cookies! Eat lots of chocolate! I mean, it’s an excuse to eat lots of sweets months away from Halloween and Christmas, so why not!? Other possible activities include calling home to your family. Just because it’s a holiday centered on love, doesn’t mean that it has to be strictly romantic. This year, I decided to send my mom chocolate-covered strawberries. She is someone that I love, so she deserves to feel the love this year. This kid obviously knows what’s up! #childoftheyear

Now, many Valentine’s Day critics would say that Valentine’s Day is bad because it allows people to think that being nice to other people is only for special occasions. I think otherwise and choose to look at it in a different way. We are always so busy! Most people like to think that they are nice people in general. But holidays like Valentine’s Day are simply reminders to appreciate those around us, in case we need to give our people skills a reality check.

However, I do enjoy the funny Valentine’s Day e-cards that are negative and pessimistic. For example, here is one that features my lovely roommate.    If you know her, you know that this is one of her signature phrases (in the least violent way possible). This is a perfect example of how Valentine’s Day doesn’t always have to be as mushy as it is often portrayed.

Make a vow not to be upset this year if you’re single. Valentine’s Day did nothing to deserve all of the negativity that is being thrown its way. If you are single, realize that you are beautiful in your own way. Our happiness should not be diminished due to the fact that we aren’t spending the day with a significant other. Also, don’t be ashamed about buying discount candy on the 15th. It has to be one of the best parts of Valentine’s Day. 

 

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Photos 1, 2, 3 – provided by author

Hey everyone! I love to write and cry over episodes of One Tree Hill (don't judge). My favorite things to write about are fashion and music. I am definitely an animal and plant lover. I'm a South Bend native so in a way, Notre Dame has always been a part of my home.