Dr Romance’s Tips: Alone on Valentine’s Day?

    If you're like every other single person, Valetine's Day doesn't do a thing for you. Instead of sitting at home alone, here are some tips to help you have fun anyway.

• Gather your best friends around you and make some special plans to have a wonderful day.
• Send valentines or personal notes to everyone who means a lot to you. 
• Or, create and celebrate Volunteer Day and use your energy and resources on behalf of people who need your help. Volunteer to tutor students, help at a homeless shelter, or teach someone to read through a Literacy Program.  

Having a plan that makes you happy is the best way to fend off the blues. Get together with friends or family, or go skiing or join a theater production! Make your Valentine's Day a spiritual growth time, attending a ritual or workshop or gathering with close friends instead of being out with the crowds. If you are clear about what will make the day special for you, and focus on that instead of what's not happening, you'll feel better about yourself and you won't have any reason to pity yourself.


HERE ARE SOME DO'S AND DON’TS

DO: Think about Valentine's Day in advance -- ask friends to join you, or find an activity that is meaningful to you.
DON'T: Allow the occasion to sneak up on you.
DO: Think about what will create the most meaningful experience for you.
DON'T: Focus on what everyone else might be doing.
DO: Consider doing something different than usual -- this is a great time to try something new.
DON'T: Isolate -- unless you do it as a meditative experience.

Tina Tessina, Ph.D., has been a licensed California psychotherapist for more than 30 years. She's authored more than 11 books, including "Money, Sex and Kids."  She can be reached at tina@tinatessina.com.