When Valentine’s Day comes around, the Internet explodes with romantic content. Whether it’s ads for jewelry, chocolate treats, bouquets of flowers, or loving couples as if their love is flawless. Don’t you think Valentine’s Day is overrated? Yet, we may not fully realize the impact this celebration can have on us.

Valentine’s Day should be a positive day by being about love, after all. But this isn’t the first time social media has negatively affected us and put us in an uncomfortable position. While social media is an advantage in terms of being able to connect with people around the world, it is also harmful to mental health. This is when self-esteem is exposed and we start comparing ourselves to others. The catch is that people post the best moments of their lives on the platforms. Few share the bad and difficult moments. We start comparing ourselves to unrealistic standards, and thus, our self-esteem is lowered. And what does this have to do with Valentine’s Day? Whether you’re in a relationship or single, social media can add some pressure. Seeing all those couples post pictures or videos of themselves together, how their relationship is full of love and without flaws. Also, seeing them show their affection, it’s like the whole world is screaming that you’re single or that, as a partner, you feel you can’t match it. For some, it can be a return to the past when they were still celebrating with their loved ones, but it ended in the worst breakup, and now all they see is sugar-coated couples and advertisements.

It is important to realize that the version of Valentine’s Day portrayed on social media is not realistic and only shows a highlight of some people’s reality. Couples should reduce the emphasis on the commercial aspect of this holiday and focus on authentic connection. Adjust expectations and alleviate feelings of pressure. Marketing is present everywhere, whether in TV commercials, billboards, or social media posts. One should be aware of marketing messages, trying not to compare them to one’s experience. Keep in mind that these images are often idealized. It is essential to pay attention when you are being advertised to. There is a saying, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself. Try to focus on what is meaningful and important to you and your partner. Celebrate your own love story and appreciate the qualities that make your relationship special. It’s best to cut back on social media if you feel you’re too vulnerable to its influence. Of course, you may feel addicted and find it hard to break away, but if you are feeling the pressure of Valentine’s Day, take a break, at least during the holiday season. Or shift your attention to positive and uplifting content that will bring you joy and inspiration. Sometimes Valentine’s Day pressure can also arise from having assumptions about your partner’s expectations for the holiday. But are your assumptions definitely on point? If you feel pressured to meet their expectations, first sit down and talk about it. Open up and share your feelings. Focus on your relationship; don’t let others mess with your mind. Why not personalize your celebration? There’s no rule on how to celebrate this day. Adjust them according to your unique interests. For example, a movie night at home, playing games together, cooking, or going out to some new restaurant. There are so many possible ways, and you can tailor them to suit you and your loved one. Of course, you can also decide not to celebrate at all. Do whatever is best for you both.

Not forgetting singles. Most people forget that the most important love a person can have in their life is self-love! How you treat yourself shapes who you are, your relationships, and how you behave in everyday life. Self-love is when a person takes the time to show kindness to themselves, whether physically, mentally, or spiritually. On Valentine’s Day, you can celebrate self-love, but how? It’s simple. Anything that makes you happy, gives you relaxation, and helps you get away from negative thoughts. It could be reading a book, taking a soothing bubble bath, or writing down positive affirmations. There are actually endless possibilities. This is also a reminder to celebrate yourself, not just on Valentine’s Day. Don’t let the Internet negatively influence you; you are worthy of love no matter what.

Aleksandra Szumielewicz

Sources:

goodintention.co – How to Avoid Social Media Pressure and Comparison on Valentine’s Day

hughbaird.ac.uk – Self-Love: The Key to a Happy Valentine’s Day

healthnews.com – Handling the Social Pressure of Valentine’s Day