The Crushing Expectations of Valentine's Day
It's that time of year again. This is the time of year when I roll my eyes a lot. We get it you're in love. Even as being part of a couple, this time of year gets me sweaty because I am worried that my grand gestures of love may not be good enough. This is why the crushing expectations of Valentine’s Day can be too much to handle.
Singles on V-Day
As a single person the waiters and people at food places will look at you sideways when you ask for a table for 1. When you open your phone you get reminded of how you aren't good enough. You're constantly reminded that you are part of the norm. This is because everyone is taking their partners on a thrilling date or posting a boomerang on social media with a bouquet of roses.
Your self-worth is narrowed down to your relationship status. The herd mentality slowly starts to creep in, and you see yourself as an outcast which heightens your loneliness. Mental health organizations have seen a rise in anxiety and depression rates at this time of year and have coined the term 'Valentines Depression'.
"It's complicated" on V-Day
As for the stages, FWB, This, That, and the Third, it all starts off as casual and no strings attached, but feelings begin to develop. When this happens you're in that awkward stage of cutting things off or being together but this awkward stage is 10 times worse when cupid comes into town.
The stress that this stage of a relationship brings is unbearable. What if they completely ignore you on Valentine's Day? What if they If you're in the talking stage like many of us are it forces you to think about your relationship. This forces you to think about whether it is the right time for romance or are still just f*ck buddies.
Couples on V-Day
Being in a couple sucks in a completely different way on Valentine's Day. The age of social media makes it much easier to compare and compete with other couples in a toxic manner. "Babe they traveled to Madrid for Valentine's, yay for them" as they look at you with a look of resentment. Capitalism wins at the end of the day.
Being a couple you need to walk on eggshells with your highly sensitive single friends. You don't want to rub in your love and romantic escapes for Valentine's but at the same time you want that release of excitement.
Bottom line is Valentine's Day sucks…
