February 14th—what could be a better date for my monthly solo date adventure? A Solo Valentine’s Day adventure! Sadly, I don’t have a Valentine. Gladly, I don’t have anyone to mess with my mind and possibly turn Valentine’s Day 2026 into another disastrous memory. And from here and now, I can tell you, I had an amazing Valentine with myself after so many years. This Valentine’s was pretty awesome and peaceful.

That afternoon, I spent some time writing spring couplets since there was no good movie to watch. I canceled my movie plan and decided to do something more creative. For more on the couplet writing experience, you can check out my weekly review of week 6. All in all, that afternoon was epic, but after finishing the couplet project, I was pretty tired, to be honest. I wasn’t really hungry either, so I debated whether I should end my Solo Valentine’s Day adventure early or extend it with more solo exploration.

I thought about it, but I decided: no, I can’t just date myself indoors. I needed to take myself out, wear something beautiful and cute, walk through the streets and crowds, and feel proud of my own company. So, I changed into something nice and headed outside.

I had my top restaurant picked for the day, but when I got there, the only table available was right in front of the door. That table immediately reminded me of a past experience. Once, on a boat trip, I tried to stand up for my rights when the rude waitress insisted we sit at a small table by the door. We were a party of two, but she argued that the table we had picked was meant for four. The thing is, it was just two single tables pushed together, and it was a buffet restaurant. We got there first, but the waitress insisted. What upset me the most, though, was my boyfriend at the time—now my ex—who seemed so ashamed of me while I argued with the waitress. He was the type of person who never spoke up for himself, let alone for me.

I should have noticed that miscompatibility long ago, but I chose to swallow it. I’m not afraid of conflict, and I stand by my own happiness. So, when I was pointed to that table by the door this time, I knew I wouldn’t feel comfortable no matter how good the food was. I politely thanked the waitress, but I said no, and left with joy.

That’s what I love about solo dates: the only person I need to carry is myself, and I’ll always stand by her—even when she’s a little picky. But honestly, I think that’s part of her charm.

You see the difference, right? When you truly love someone, you see the beauty in their quirks and try to understand them. But if you don’t, even at the slightest inconvenience, you’ll side with the world to betray them. That was painful, to be honest. I can’t believe I let that ex treat me that badly, but I still thought I loved him. What kind of man leaves someone like that? But now I know—it’s better to be on my own than to stay with someone who’s incompatible with me.

Going on a solo Valentine’s Day date has helped me gain clarity about what I truly want in a relationship. I don’t need any man; I need the kind of man who would proudly stand beside me, just as I stand on my own, and who would go against the world with me, not the other way around.

That night, I ended up going to my favorite restaurant. I love the food there, and I enjoyed myself while reading Wuthering Heights and watching couples come and go. I didn’t feel lonely. I didn’t fear the pity of others. I felt full and content with my own company. I love my solo Valentine’s Day date, and I’m so glad I took myself out on Valentine’s Day. I’m also grateful to have finally cut that toxic relationship out of my life. I will be happy with or without a man.

Happy Valentine’s Day Every Day!