Groan. Valentine’s Day is here. And while some singletons are perhaps avoiding social media and all the lovey-dovey posts, I’m sitting here wondering if I should take today and love myself. Gross – I know, but in true Bridget Jones fashion, I’ve prepped wine and chocolate and, of course, all the Bridget Jones movies (barring the newest one that’s just landed in theatres). Here’s how you can have your very own Bridget Jones-inspired Valentine’s Day.
Being in a single twenty-something, I’ve learned that this dreaded day doesn’t have to be about loving a partner, a day of existential dread (or an excuse to drink too much wine in questionable pyjamas). Instead, it’s a chance to lean into the fun, romance, and ridiculousness of the day—just on your own terms.
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Start with a Bridget-approved breakfast
Bridget may have had a habit of waking up late and hungover, but let’s elevate the experience with a breakfast that sets the tone for self-love. Whether it’s a luxurious stack of pancakes, a smoothie bowl that looks like it belongs on Pinterest, or just a large coffee and a smug sense of independence, make it something indulgent. And if you want to start the day dancing around in your pants to ‘All By Myself’, who am I to stop you?
Write yourself a love letter
Bridget spent a lot of time obsessing over the things she wanted to change about herself (we all remember the diary entries). But instead of listing your supposed flaws, why not write yourself the kind of letter you’d want to receive? Compliment your resilience, your humour, your ability to assemble Ikea furniture alone—whatever makes you, you.
Watch a rom-com (or five)
A solo Valentine’s Day wouldn’t be complete without a cinematic trip into the world of love and ridiculous misunderstandings. Yes, ‘Bridget Jones’s Diary’ is a classic choice, but feel free to branch out—think ‘10 Things I Hate About You’, ‘Pride and Prejudice’ (the Colin Firth version, obviously), or something chaotic like ‘Mamma Mia’. Bonus points if you throw in some dramatic reenactments from your sofa.
Indulge in a self-care evening
Bridget may have opted for oversized knickers and a questionable amount of Chardonnay, but your version of self-care can be as extra or as chill as you like. Run a bath, slap on a facemask, order the expensive sushi—whatever makes you feel like the main character in your own romantic comedy.
Treat yourself to a little gift
If couples can exchange heart-shaped boxes of chocolates and overpriced flowers, why shouldn’t you? Whether it’s a perfume you’ve been eyeing, a beautiful book, or a fresh bouquet just because, gift yourself something that makes you happy. After all, you’re the person you’ll be spending the most time with—might as well treat yourself right.
End the night on a high
Bridget may have had some spectacularly tragic Valentine’s Days, but she also had a knack for bouncing back with a killer playlist and a glass of wine. End your evening with a feel-good song (I highly recommend ‘I Will Survive’ at full volume), a little dance around the living room, and the knowledge that being single on Valentine’s Day is not a curse—it’s a fabulous opportunity to celebrate yourself.
So, whether you’re wrapped up in a fluffy dressing gown or out on the town, remember this: Valentine’s Day isn’t just about grand romantic gestures. It’s about love in all its forms—including the love you show yourself. And, let’s be honest, being single means no awkward set-menu dinners or forced romantic clichés. That’s a win in my book.
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