Valentine’s Day is the most important part of February for a lot of couples. It is the time for flowers, chocolates and spending time with each other. Though, for many not in relationships, it is a dreaded holiday that leaves them alone with a bit of sadness in their heart. 

Considering this, is Valentine’s Day really that important of an event? Personally, I think it does not need to be such an important focus in people’s lives. 

Many companies push the agenda that Valentine’s Day is something that all people should celebrate. They put heart themed sweets and colorful gifts into superstores weeks before Feb. 14, just so people can prepare to surprise their lover with gifts. 

It feels more like a moment of profit than appreciation. I do not mind if people want to get gifts for their partners, but the idea that you need someone for Valentine’s Day irks me. 

People feel an obligation to fall into the trends of Valentine’s Day, spending more money than they probably wanted to in the first place. According to a report from The National Retail Federation, the average consumer was expected to spend $200 this Valentine’s Day, a $12 increase from last year. 

Getting gifts can be costly for a lot of people’s wallets. A gift or two is fine, but if you want to do something for Valentine’s Day, go the traditional route and spend time with them in person. It’s common sense, but it is better than spending hundreds on gifts that will be gone in a week. 

Another painful aspect of Valentine’s Day is how it has been solidified in American culture. It has become a staple of romance, meaning people are pressured to participate in it, otherwise it means they are not really loving each other. 

Movies and TV shows have popularized romance to the point where people might feel like they constantly need to be in a relationship to be stable. To some degree, the presence of Valentine’s Day also activates this urge. 

People joke that they are open for Valentine’s Day dates, though some people go the extra mile to try and secure a date just so they are not alone. There is no harm in deciding you do not want to participate in the yearly tradition, but people still feel bad about themselves anyway. 

To me, Valentine’s Day should be about spending time with the person you love. A gift or two is alright, but don’t indulge too much on the stereotypes of the holiday. If you are alone, it does not matter at all. Sometimes living without a relationship is better than looking for a date just for Valentine’s Day.