When I did Massage Therapy and worked in a spa, people wanting to create a romantic atmosphere for Valentine’s Day made appointments in our couples room to get massages. If it fell on a weekend, the room was booked solid Saturday and Sunday. But not all these “couples’ were actual partners. It was obvious by how they acted who was really together or if one person was trying to have a relationship with someone who wasn’t into them. If they were a real couple, they were pleasant. If they weren’t, the person trying for a relationship would be frustrated everything wasn’t perfect. They would constantly look over at the other person during the session and complain about small things. And afterward, the front desk associate would get a list of reasons why it wasn’t the perfect experience. I remember our manager got yelled at by a lady saying we ruined her Valentine’s Day because the appointment started late. Whatever.

Valentine’s Day is just a day. And it is nice if you are in a relationship to be acknowledged. But if the spark with someone isn’t there, no amount of gifts or time spent with them will create the love you are hoping for. Rather than waste your energy hoping for romance to blossom, take that day and do something for yourself.