Valentine’s Day, the widely accepted day for the public showcasing of love to a romantic partner is just around the corner. However, if this year’s celebration happens to find you single or otherwise riding solo, chances are you aren’t looking forward to the big day.

As Valentine’s Day approaches it’s easy to let the media and advertisements make you feel like something is missing if the day finds you ‘boo-less’.

While these feelings are completely understandable, being sad and single on Valentine’s Day is a painfully outdated trope.

Instead of allowing this commercialist holiday to leave you feeling blue, here are four tricks to survive Valentine’s Day when single.

1. Change your mindset

Contrary to what the world will have you think, being single on Valentine’s Day is not the end of the world.

Many people before you have found themselves single on the ‘day of love’ and many after you will do the same.

Rather than wallow away in self-pity, see Valentine’s Day for what it really is, nothing more than a capitalist cash grab.

By being single you are actually doing yourself a favour, by avoiding spending exorbitant fees on chocolate, roses and teddy bears simply because society told you to do so.

2. Pamper yourself

It’s true what they say that self-love is the best love. That said, put a spin on the traditional way of celebrating Valentine’s Day, and use this day as an opportunity to show yourself some love.

Book a massage, get a haircut, schedule a manicure, plan a full at-home spa day, complete with fluffy robes and cucumber slices on your eyes.

Do for yourself, the activities that make you feel loved and, remember, your relationship with yourself is a forever love, so take some time to nurture it.

3. Stay off social media

Yes, you read that right.

As a single person, Valentine’s Day is the best day to avoid social media, if you don’t want to see all the happy couple photos that will no doubt clog your feed.

Particularly if you are newly single, avoiding social media on Valentine’s Day will assist you in resisting the urge to check in on your ex.

Think of your social media break as a much-needed digital detox.

4. Avoid love triggers

Just like staying away from social media, if you’re riding solo for this year’s Valentine’s Day it may be best for you to avoid watching romantic movies and listening to love songs.

These activities can be particularly triggering as they act as a constant reminder that you are spending the ‘day of love’ alone.