Even if you're not a huge fan of Valentine's Day, I think most people would agree that it kind of sucks to be single on Feb. 14. Even more so if it's your first Valentine's Day after your divorce.
It's not so much that you miss all of the festivities of Valentine's Day, it's more about the holiday being another giant reminder that you're divorced. Even if you and your ex hadn't celebrated V-Day in years, it's a punch in the gut to realize you aren't getting any flowers because you have an ex, not because your partner doesn't believe in "Hallmark holidays."
Any holiday after your divorce can be crushing, sure, but there's just something really sad about that first Valentine's Day post-split. Unlike Christmas, which is full of lots of distractions, and birthdays, which you celebrated before you were ever married, V-Day is a holiday targeted for couples and you're no longer part of its demographic. There's no one to buy a mushy Valentine's Day card for, there's not going to be a candlelit dinner that night, and there isn't going to be sex after you're out of that expensive, red lingerie you're never going to wear again.
But you know what? All you need are these 11 ways to cope with your first Valentine’s Day and you'll be good as new. In fact, you might even look forward to the holiday. So put on something red and sexy, OK? (Or something red and comfy like that ancient pair of Old Navy fleece pajamas.)
1Invite Your Single Friends Over
Have a get-together with your single friends and enjoy the evening. Watch your favorite Netflix shows, eat yummy snacks, and take solace in the fact that you are not alone.
2Have A 'Harry Potter' Marathon
Get lost in a world that would never leave you — the world of Harry Potter. There's just enough true love to not make you bitter, but there's also dragons and trolls and evil wizards to keep your heart in check.
3Cry It Out
Don't hold back. If you're upset about the day and need to let it out, go for it. You don't have to be stony faced because it's V-Day and everyone tells you the day doesn't matter anyway. You're allowed to be hurt and sad.
4Eat All The Candy You Want
Seriously, eat it all! And then remember that you can buy more the day after Valentine's Day , because the candy is on clearance.
5Make The Day About Your Little Ones
If you have little ones in your life, make the day all about them. That's the best love of all, right? Do crafts, make snacks, or watch your favorite Disney love stories while piled up on the couch.
6Wear The Sexy Lingerie Anyway
I am a firm believer that lingerie is just as much for you as it is for your SO. So why rid yourself of feeling like a sexy vixen just because your ex isn't there? Put on the sexy lingerie, even if you're just going to lounge on the couch and watch Netflix.
7Stay Home
Don't feel like you have to go out to prove a point. Just stay home and enjoy the night in without everyone asking you what your plans are or why you're alone.
8Don't Contact Your Ex
Resist the urge, even if your plans included a snarky text to them about how much better off you are without them. It's especially hard if you're still hung up on your ex, but don't let the romance of the day cloud your judgement. There's a reason why you two got divorced and no amount of heart shaped chocolates and pink candles can take that away.
9Spoil Yourself
Go get a pedicure. Buy those shoes you've been eyeing. Pick up the deluxe Blu-ray version of Magic Mike. Today is your day and if no one else is around to spoil you, you can do it yourself.
10Eat Something Delicious For Dinner
It may not be a romantic date, but you can still light the candles and treat your tummy to something delicious for dinner. Order takeout from your favorite Thai place or make one of your favorite dishes at home. You don't want 10 p.m. to hit and have all of that chocolate consumption make you feel even worse about the day. Make yourself some dinner already.
11Ignore The Rules
Ignore all of the rules about Valentine's Day. You don't have to eat anything in a heart shape or proclaim that you hate the holiday. Wear lingerie to bed, even if you're alone, or wear your favorite pair of sweats. Forget traditions, let go of the pressure and expectations of the holiday, and just enjoy another random day in the middle of February.
Images: David Goehring/Flickr; Giphy (11)