Valentine’s Day brings up so many memories of growing up. Years before I was interested in boys, my father was my Valentine—a tradition we maintained until he passed 12 years ago. He always sent a huge bouquet of flowers to my mom and smaller ones to my sister and me. I remember when we were working together years later, he would send flowers to everyone in our office. It was a nice thing to do if they had no date on Valentine’s Day and everyone appreciated it; they didn’t always get flowers from their loved ones.

From my father I learned that Valentine’s Day isn’t just a special day for “couples.” I began giving chocolates to my mom, dad, brother, sister, close friends, and, of course, my boyfriend when I had one. (And dog bones for my dog!) Maintaining this tradition, I never felt lonely or left out when the holiday came around and I had no date on Valentine’s Day. It actually made me feel more love!

This year you can rewire the way you think about Valentine’s Day. You don’t need to be in a romantic relationship to enjoy the holiday. All you need is to find the love in your life and express it.

Surely all of us have love in our lives—sometimes it stares us right in the face and we don’t know it. Maybe it’s the friend who always calls back when you leave a voicemail. Or the coworker who helps you out or lends an ear to listen to complaints. Or maybe it’s the love you have for yourself.

Consider Valentine’s Day this way: not as a holiday for couples, but as a holiday for you to express gratitude to someone else. Make plans to go out with some friends and have fun! AND, don’t worry if you have no date on Valentine’s Day.

Also, be sure to read Barbara Biziou’s article about Valentine’s Day rituals!

From my heart to yours,

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Rose Caiola
Inspired. Rewired.

Click here to see more of Rose’s tips for healthy and happy relationships