Alright, you beautiful disaster of a human being, let’s get this out of the way: it’s Valentine’s Day, and you’re flying solo. Boo-hoo, right? Wrong. Stop crying into that overpriced pint of ice cream you panic-bought from the gas station at midnight, and let me explain why being alone on this capitalist love-fest is actually chef’s kiss perfection.

First of all, Valentine’s Day is a scam. Yeah, I said it. Some marketing genius decided to make people feel guilty for being single so they could sell more chocolate, flowers, and creepy stuffed animals that whisper, “I love you” when you squeeze their belly. You really want to feel bad about not participating in that nonsense? Hell no. You’re smarter than that. Probably.

Secondly, let’s talk about freedom, baby. No significant other means no forced dinners at restaurants that are packed tighter than your inbox after you forgot to check it for a week. No pretending to like the gift that clearly came from the clearance rack at Target. No trying to explain why you don’t want to take couple’s selfies in front of a giant paper heart. You get to spend the day exactly how you want. Want to sit in your underwear watching trashy reality TV and eating cereal straight out of the box? Do it. You’re a hero.

Third, and this one’s important: you’re enough. Yeah, I know, that’s some motivational poster-level fluff, but it’s true. You don’t need a partner to validate your existence or to tell you that you’re lovable. Spoiler alert: you already are. Even if you’re the type of person who texts “on my way” while still in the shower, there’s someone out there who would love you for it. Just not today. And that’s okay. Today is about loving yourself—or at least tolerating yourself long enough to not hate your own company. Baby steps, champ.

So what should you do instead of spiraling into a pit of self-loathing? Here are some options:

1. Throw Yourself a Party: Invite other single friends over, and have a blast roasting cheesy rom-coms. Bonus points if you’re all wearing pajamas and drinking something with a ridiculous name like “Unicorn Tears” cocktails.
2. Treat Yo’Self: Use that money you’d spend on a date to buy something you actually want. Like a weighted blanket. Or a hot tub. Or a six-foot-tall statue of a velociraptor. It’s your day; go nuts.
3. Do Something You Love: Pick a hobby, any hobby. Unless your hobby is lurking in bushes and watching happy couples. Then, maybe pick a new hobby. Please.
4. Swipe Left on Social Media: No one needs to see a flood of couple selfies. It’s just people trying to convince themselves they’re as happy as they look. Instead, follow a dog meme account or watch videos of sloths eating carrots. Instant mood boost.

Finally, remember this: Valentine’s Day is 24 hours long, and you’ve survived far worse. (Like that time you tried to parallel park in front of a crowd.) This too shall pass, and tomorrow, all the overpriced chocolate will be on sale.

So, chin up, you magnificent trainwreck. You’re not alone in being alone, and honestly, you’re doing just fine. Better than fine. You’re thriving. Now go grab that pint of ice cream and enjoy your freedom like the majestic, untamed creature you are.

Happy Single Awareness Day. Or whatever. Cheers!