Single for Valentine’s Day? Here’s How to Celebrate.

I've never been a huge fan of Valentine's Day. After all, it's commercially inspired, and a little bit exclusive, since it's only for people who seem to be coupled up. Besides, who wants to see the girl in the cubicle next to you at work get a big bouquet of flowers delivered when you're single and searching?

While some might enjoy all the chocolate and expensive dinner reservations, a fair amount of singles don't look forward to Valentine's Day. But instead of complaining about it or avoiding it altogether, why not try some of these inspired Valentine's Day ideas?

Check out the local listings. While you might not want to get all romantic, maybe you wouldn't mind a little flirting. Many bars and clubs offer parties on Valentine's Day, so if you're single, grab a friend, get dressed up, and meet a few other singles. If you're feeling adventurous, check online dating and speed dating sites to see if they are hosting any singles events.

Throw a party. This is for my single female friends. Some of my favorite Valentine's Days included inviting a bunch of my friends over for a great meal (either ordered in or one that I enjoyed cooking) or to gorge ourselves on chocolate, cupcakes, or salty treats while watching chick flicks or stand-up comedy. The point being - celebrate your awesome friends on Valentine's Day---it's about the love in your life, romantic or otherwise!

Send a card. Has a friend, aunt, or parent always been there for you when you needed them? Valentine's Day is a good time to let them know how much you love and appreciate them. Send a card expressing your love - you'll feel good and you will make their day.

Get away. Valentine's Day falls on a Thursday this year. Why not grab a couple of friends and make a long weekend out of it? Get out of town and see something new - whether you're into skiing, hiking, Vegas casinos, whatever. Cash in those bonus miles for a plane ticket or gas up the car and go have fun.

Make it a you-celebration. Not into hanging out with other people? That's okay, too. You can make Valentine's Day a celebration of you. The best way to bring love into your life is to create it yourself, so show yourself some love. Head to the spa and get a massage, or order in from your favorite restaurant and curl up with a good book. Or if you're feeling a bit of cabin fever, why not take the day off and take a drive in the country or up the coast, or go for a hike or bike ride? There are plenty of options - the point is to do something that feels good to you, and reminds you of what you love that you already have in your life.