I’ll be frank.

On Valentine’s Day, instead of dating, I’ll probably be at my desk watching cartoons. To anyone else who might be doing the same, that’s far from a bad thing.

Films have created a beautiful image of what a relationship can be; one full of funny mishaps, cute moments, just a bit of risk and conflict, and a happy, conveniently-resolved ending.

It’s only natural to want that happily-ever-after relationship.

The reality, however, is that not everyone gets that experience. Sometimes relationships just end, sometimes miserably.
There are people who have never been in a relationship, but seriously want to, and that’s to say nothing about aromantics who don’t have a vested interest in it.

If it was your fault a relationship ended, learning from your mistakes can make you better at forming new relationships, platonic or otherwise.

That’s not to say the next relationship will be “the one.” The more bonds you forge with people, the clearer an idea you get of what you want and what you don’t want.

Incidentally, I am not too keen on technology playing a role in dating anymore. Texting someone for three weeks and realizing, “Woah, nevermind” in the middle of our first date has definitely turned me off of chat apps.

It’s just as important to acknowledge that it’s OK  to be single. I’m surrounded by people in long-running, committed relationships, but the most important thing I’ve learned in the last three years is  I don’t need to be in a relationship to be happy.

The biggest part of adulthood is that transition into a more conscientious mindset, and part of that is learning to love yourself.

This Valentine’s Day, while the flood of giant teddy bears, boxes of chocolate and roses might get a little grating for the single college student, just let it slide. You’re fine, no matter how happy everyone else is.

If you want romance, it’ll come to you in good time.

In the meantime, simply focus on becoming that best version of yourself.