Everyone has someone to love but no one, more specifically no woman, should love anyone more than she loves herself. While we’re all for birthdays and anniversaries and all those mindless activities that allow corporations like Hallmark to survive, the overdose of pink and red on February 14 makes us gag. Let’s admit it: most of us would appreciate a bottle of Hajmola more than sickly sweet candy (that’ll go straight to your rear end) on VD.

Here’s what to do on Valentine’s Day when you’re a single, sexy (and often lethal) female with a thriving career and are trying to convince the world that you honestly don’t mind NOT having a man in your life. VD is about love…so shamelessly surround yourself by the things you actually do love!

Wake up to the fragrance of flowers you’ve bought for yourself

Who says that flowers need to be delivered by an admirer? There’s no one who’ll appreciate you more than you (your parents may not think of it) so buy yourself flowers to remind yourself how special you are. Wake up to the exhilarating essence of red roses, blushing gladiolas, deep orchids or white lilies…we promise that there aren’t many things more pleasurable than the fragrance of fresh flowers. You’ll be lucky if you can find Nargis somewhere.

Feed your heart

If your kids and/or parents are around (even if the man in your life isn’t) then take them out to brunch and indulge because the stomach isn’t just the way to a man’s heart; it will undeniably make you happy too. Hopefully you’ve already booked in advance but even if you haven’t, make a few calls and head out to the restaurant of your choice. Do not torture yourself by stepping into the kitchen and consequently feeling sorry for yourself.

Pamper thyself

A relaxing pedicure at Nabila’s followed by deep-tissue and muscle massage at Mint should ease your stress away. Book yourself into Aramish if you’re in Lahore or walk into your favourite salon for a head massage. Take Body Shops’ Cooling Aqua Eye Mask with you so you don’t have to see girls getting bright red manicures on their acrylic talons.

Shop till you drop

Retail therapy is such a cliche but in all honesty, there isn’t much that makes a woman happier than shopping. Head out to the mall and check out all those fabulous VD sales on offer. Pick up clothes, shoes, books, cosmetics and even jewellery if your budget allows it. Return only when you’ve exhausted your desire and your budget.

Connect with friends and family or simply  turn in with a good book/film

We would recommend a back to back overdose of Sex and the City, which will truly help you appreciate your state of single-dom. Avoid mushy, romantic films that may enhance the lack of romance in your life and try to end your night with some hard core action to get the adrenalin pumping. If you can, locate the particular episode of Friends in which the girls conduct a ritual of burning ex-boyfriend memorabilia and if you like, do the same. Have a good go at the punching bag and you should be ready to slip into sweet slumber.