Be your own valentine.

By Alison Greiner, Life Coach

Valentine’s Day is a wonderful time for couples in love but can be one of the loneliest days of the year for singles. Valentine’s Day can bring memories of past loves or serve as a reminder that your special someone is still to be found. Hitched or unhitched Valentine’s Day should be a day that you share love with everyone around you, and especially with yourself, for true love begins within.

Try some of these suggestions to experience love this Valentine’s Day.

Be grateful for all the people in your life that care about you. Instead of focusing on what you don’t have, focus on all the wonderful people in your life and give thanks for them.

Spend time alone: Spending time alone allows you to relax and reflect. Go for a walk, a bike ride or do any activity that you enjoy. One of my favorite solo activities is to sit by the beach and listen as the waves crash against the rocks. When the weather isn’t warm, parking the car to watch the sunset is another peaceful activity.

Get in shape: Sweat it out at a yoga class, an aerobics class or on the treadmill. Exercising will clear your mind, boost your esteem and get you motivated. Click here for a timesaving 20-minute workout.

Volunteer and lend a helping hand to needy children, the elderly or the homeless. Volunteering is a great way to bring happiness into others’ lives and experience a powerful love.

Mail it: If you don’t expect to receive a card in the mail, send a card. Send a card to someone special in your life—a friend, your mom or a relative—thanking them for being them.

Do a kind deed for someone: It could be as simple as opening the door, flashing a smile or buying someone a coffee. Spread the love and it will make its way back to you.

Splurge on yourself: Get a manicure, a pedicure or a relaxing massage. If the comfort of your home is where you like to relax, fill your tub with bubbles, light some candles and play some soft music as you soak your worries away.

Throw a singles’ party: Be the fabulous host of the year’s best bash. Send valentines to all your single friends inviting them to your valentine shindig: rent movies, play board games, make tasty treats and hit the hot tub. Let the good times roll!

Fresh flowers for me! Have you been longing to arrive at work to find a bouquet of fresh, vibrant flowers awaiting you? Send yourself some flowers—no one has to know, it’s our little secret.

Catch a flick: If the latest romantic movie is just what you need, but you don’t have a date, go solo. You won’t have anyone’s paws diving into your popcorn and there’ll be no annoying questions, comments or laughs. It will just be you and the big screen. Peace at last!

You’re worth it! Has Ralph Lauren’s latest fragrance been on your mind, or is it the must-have new Guess jeans? Whatever item is at the top of your wish list, treat yourself and enjoy every moment of the shopping experience. Go ahead, you’re worth it!

Take the day off: No cooking, cleaning, ironing or errands. If you have any must-dos, schedule them in the day before. Hire a cleaning service and order in dinner—you deserve a day of rest.

Set some goals: You deserve the world, but failing to plan is planning to fail. Set aside some time and recommit to your New Year’s resolutions and complete your Goals Program. You can achieve anything you set out to. If you’re single you may want to list the qualities you are looking for in a mate and places you could go to meet them. If you know what you are looking for it is that much easier to find.

Phone friends that you haven’t spoken to in a long time. Reuniting with your friends can be a great way to reminisce. Pull out a photo album and revisit the good old times.

Pretty Woman, Bridget Jones’s Diary, When Harry Met Sally—what is your favorite romantic movie? Go to the video store, rent some movies and hit the couch for a night of cinematherapy. Escape from reality and explore your emotions by clicking play. Get some snacks and apply this night to your 80/20 rule.

Do something adventurous: Do something you’ve never done before, but always wanted to, like rock climbing or snowboarding. This will enhance your adventurous side and improve your self-confidence.