Happy Valentine’s Day!

Sure the day is just about over but that doesn’t mean you can’t use some tips on how to get through the remainder of this love-filled day. February 14th is just another day but it is also the most popular occasion where the media makes some single people feel more lonely and men feeling forced that they must do something special for their mate. I like Charlie Brown will not get sucked into the commercialized hoopla that is Valentine’s Day, and since ole cupid has not struck me with his ancient arrow I’m just going to chalk this day up for what it is. I’m just fine with that.

Whether you’re single, in a relationship, newly engaged, engaged for some years now, married, divorced, we all need advice on how to keep it positive. This survival guide will be more purposeful for: The Single Girl, The Girl Who’s Faking It, The Almost Married Girl, and anyone else in between. So before you drop your Cinderella glass slipper of hope or that Saturday night in glass of wine, here are some suggestions to help you keep a love for yourself momentum going even after V-Day is over.

For: The Single Girl

Yeah, you’re single for the who knows what year in a row on Valentine’s Day but who’s counting! No, I don’t want you to watch some sappy or romantic movie to make you feel like you’re missing something. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Popcorn (don’t burn it)
• Watch Clueless cause as Cher says, “Whatever!”
• Start or finish a book. Suggestion: Breath, Eyes, Memory by: Edwidge Danticat
• Write 2-3 sentences in the notes of your phone a proud moment you had so far this year.

For: The Girl Who’s Faking It

Girl, let me tell you if it looks shady and just…not right, leave it alone. If the guy/girl in your life is causing you nothing but a headache, pop a pain reliever and drop them, or at least have a conversation with them to express your feelings. There was a point where they just weren’t that into you and now that your relationship may be beneficial for them doesn’t mean it’s right. Here’s what you have to do:

• Don’t bring the problem past today, confront it. Afterwards treat yourself to something sweet. M&Ms?
• Pray on the situation, maybe your paths will cross again for a relationship but for now take that “me time.”
• Focus on the true loves of your life: your family, your child(ren), close friends you can confide in.
• Write 2-3 sentences in the notes of your phone a proud moment you had so far this year.

For: The Almost Married Girl

So on this heart-shaped day you’re more so thinking about YOUR upcoming heart-shaped day – the wedding. The pressure is on more than likely, it’s a special time for you but probably overwhelming. Whether you’re getting hitched this spring, summer, or by the end of 2015 it’s probably all you can think about and rightfully so. Marriage and the ceremony before it is like a big production. But with the right players, behind the scenes support, and a positive outlook things will come together. Don’t fret you’re doing your best. Before you jump the broom try this before the day ends:

• Inhale positivity, exhale negativity. Repeat.
• Tell your sweetie you love them. Repeat.
• Wash your face from the woes of the day and rest up.
• Write 2-3 sentences in the notes of your phone a proud moment you had so far this year.

From my heart to yours,

-Lish xoxo