Ahh, Valentine’s day. The day of love, chocolate, and kisses. (Hershey Kisses, of course.) It’s an infamous day that can either go really well or really…not well, and if you’re reading this, it seems like you’re planning on the day going like the latter. 

Well, you’re in luck! Someone should really write a book on how to survive Valentine’s day as a high schooler one day, but for now, you’re going to have to settle for me. I’ve created a little survival guide for all my lonely friends out there. There are three rules that you HAVE to follow if you want a chance to make it through the day. 

One: keep headphones or airpods in your ears all day. Don’t even think about taking them out. Music is going to be your best friend. Have you ever heard the saying, “out of sight, out of mind”? Well, it’s kind of similar to that, but I’m sure you don’t want to be blindfolded for the whole day, so this is the next best thing! Since you won’t be able to hear anything, you won’t have to hear all the mushy love talk! Just, make sure to listen to your teachers if they ask you to take your headphones out. I wouldn’t want you to get in trouble because of my advice. That’s why I would recommend using airpods, since they’re less noticeable.

Rule number two: focus on your friends! Yes, Valentine’s day is usually known as the day for couples, but love is more than just  romance. Platonic love should be celebrated as well; after all, in high school, friendships usually last longer than relationships. Making little gifts for your friends is always a good way to get your mind off of everything else going on around you. Plus, seeing them light up at the gift is always worth it. I love making little candy boxes, getting flowers, or even just writing a letter. Most people love handmade or thoughtful gifts, so there’s no need to spend a lot of money!

Rule number three: remember, there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. If you can get through the day, the day of February fifteenth is the best reward of all. Not only is it “Single’s Awareness Day,” but everything is also on sale, from chocolate to candy to stuffed animals. One year, I went to Target and got a huge teddy bear for half its price! That’s how I found out about this trick. It’s a shame that not many people know about it, but I can’t complain too much, because it’s better for those of us who do! Even if you only have a few dollars, you can always find something fun. You can go with your friends, or just by yourself. Remember to have fun! That’s the most important thing. You just got through the worst day of the year, so reward yourself!

There we have it, my friends. A guide to surviving Valentine’s Day. Hopefully I’ve provided some advice or inspiration, and, hopefully, it can help you get through that cursed day. Remember: it’s only twenty four hours, and there’s plenty of other things to do. Good luck; you got this!