Admittedly, this past year has been a lot different than the previous years. It’s hard to dive into relationships when a global pandemic urges you to distance yourself from making new connections. 

That’s OK! 

There is absolutely no need to worry about finding yourself a date or being in a relationship on Valentine’s Day. It’s just like any other day of any other year! 

As for the recent singles out there, CONGRATS! You dodged a bullet, trust us. Now that may have sounded rude, but you needed to hear that. Whether it was the added stress of the pandemic and lockdown, or them simply not deserving you — it probably was not meant to be. So, take a deep breath and we’ll tell all you beautiful, amazing singles how to live your best life on the day you’ve been least looking forward to.

Netflix on the rocks: Let the boring couples indulge in the old Netflix and Chill tradition. If you are of legal age, you can get yourself some whiskey or gin on the rocks and turn on a classic blockbuster. The options are limitless whether you want to go for an action thriller or a chick-flick, or even a timeless romance like "Titanic" because, seriously, is there anything better than the trio of you, Leo DiCaprio and wine? Another pro tip: "A Simple Favor" is perfect with a dirty martini.

Cook a romantic meal ... for one: Who says you need a partner to whip up your best dish? Treat yourself! You can still cook romantic dinners for your adoring, cherished and beloved stomach. If you’re feeling extra saucy, throw in some chocolates or chocolate-covered strawberries to indulge in while you enjoy the rest of your day.

Dance it off by yourself: There’s a song for every mood and whether you’re looking for gooey love songs to put you in the spirit, upbeat classics to bring in some energy or mellow tunes to vibe with by yourself, you’ll surely find something to make the soundtrack of your day. Last year, The State News put together our very own Valentine’s Day playlist, check that out for some inspiration!

Party it out with other singles! (Over Zoom, of course): Video calling has by now become an essential part of the new normal for all of us. Talking to friends and family, or even having game nights over apps like Zoom or Houseparty is not an unusual concept to us anymore. So, why not mingle with other singles and celebrate the day your way? You can play card games, board games, drinking games or even Jackbox Games. Monster Seeking Monster can be a great way to escape by bagging yourself a bloody date in the form of a virtual friend. Personally, I think there is nothing better than killing some mates in Among Us for the day of love! 

Go old-school and make your friends’ valentines: I don’t know about anyone else, but Valentine’s Day hit its peak for me in elementary school. Every year, as the day came around, each kid brought in valentines for everyone else in the class. Some came with candy hearts attached and others were filled with cute holiday stickers. Nonetheless, I used to love taking them home and going through every last one of them. But who says that fun has to be reserved for elementary schoolers? Make some valentines for your friends this year and mail them out! I promise they will spark a lot of joy, and you will have fun making them.

Hibernate: Be a bear! Everyone loves bears, and honestly, if you can’t bear this day, what better way to spend it than sleeping? So, while the couples are planning the perfect nights (that will probably not end up so perfect), you can treat yourself in the best way possible — catch some sleep. Let the lovers worry about the day while you take that much-needed nap. This year, Valentine’s Day falls on a Sunday, so make the best of both occasions! On a bonus note: you can always escape into a dreamland where you’re having dates with Matt Bomer or Henry Cavill.

Whatever you choose to do, don’t let yourself get too caught up in one day of the year. Remember, there are 364 other days and this one doesn’t need to be any different.

This column is part of the Restricted Romance print issue. Read the entire issue here.