Single on Valentine’s Day?

Recently separated or divorced and Valentine’s Day is right around the corner?

Depending on the circumstances of your divorce, you may be dreading February 14^th or you may plan on celebrating. Either way, take this as an opportunity to make this a day for you, all about you.

If you weren’t the one who wanted to put an end to your previous relationship (or even if you were), the first time Valentine’s Day rolls around post separation can be a difficult one.  You are surrounded by hearts and chocolate wrapped in red foil everywhere you look – from tv commercials to supermarket shelves.

Think about what you want out of your day ahead of time and plan accordingly to make it happen. You may need to start the day with a good cry before getting out of bed.  DO NOT be ashamed by this.  Everyone needs a good cry sometimes and grieving a past relationship is an important and necessary step to moving on.

Depending on whether or not it is a work day, you may have more or less time to fill. Let’s go with the assumption that you have gone to work and suitably distracted yourself until around 5pm.  If you are the type ofwho feels better surrounding yourself with others, plan ahead to go out with some girlfriends.  A spa day sounds lovely, or a good happy hour somewhere fun may be just what the doctor ordered.

But if you are happier looking inwards and spending this time alone, head home and take a nice long bubble bath with that book you’ve been meaning to start and a nice glass of wine or bubbly prosecco.  Dress up and do your hair and makeup if that’s what you enjoy, or put on your comfiest pajamas and settle down on the sofa with some take out menus and order one of your favourites.  If flowers make you smile and brighten your mood, be sure to buy some for yourself.  But try to do it a couple of days before and avoid all those last minute people who didn’t plan in advance!

Most importantly, remember to love yourself because you deserve it!