Valentine’s Day gets bashed unnecessarily. Sure, not everyone always has a significant other, but this isn’t something to be ashamed of. Valentine’s isn’t a day for single-shaming, it’s just a day for celebrating the special people in your life, whether a boyfriend, girlfriend, or a best friend.

This Valentine’s Day, whether you are single or not, you should take the time to appreciate the people that are important to you.

For those dating on Valentine’s Day, the commercialization of the “Hallmark holiday” may make it seem as if the only way to celebrate is through buying cards, candy and teddy bears. But your affection isn’t measured by the value of the gifts that you give. A more meaningful, heart-felt gift will always matter more to someone than something expensive and cliché. And if they get upset that you didn’t give them a fancy enough present, they might not be the right person for you.

And don’t feel pressured to buy a gift. If you haven’t been dating for a while, don’t make a bigger deal out of Valentine’s Day than there needs to be. Those couples that exchange lavish gifts after being together for two weeks just don’t seem natural.

Or if you aren’t feeling the gift idea, try an activity or outing instead. Go to one of those Escape Room places that are becoming popular or go out for an evening of whirlyball. The fun times you have will be worth more in the long run than a box of chocolates.

Please just don’t be mainstream and take your Valentine’s date to a movie. That is the most predictable move ever and isn’t cute or creative or special. Sure, movies are fun to watch, but sitting in a cold, dark room with 100 other people without speaking to eachother for two hours doesn’t exactly scream “I care about you a lot.” Save that for a normal date, or really anything other than Valentine’s Day. You’re better than that.

If the nature of your Valentine’s Day isn’t a romantic relationship, you have even more options. You can follow in the footsteps of Leslie’s Galentine’s Day from “Parks and Rec,” and get together with your closest friends. Go out to dinner and wander around the mall or stay in and bake cookies. Send them those one-liner Valentine’s Day cards based on their favorite TV shows that Buzzfeed posts almost exclusively during the week leading up to Feb. 14. Tell them to check their front door and leave a fancy cupcake sitting outside. If you want to seriously show your appreciation for your BFF, find your cutest picture and get it framed (or turn it into a semi-creepy mug or blanket).

If these ideas are too cutesy for you, just write “One free Chiptole burrito” on a piece of paper and give it to your friend. Next time you’re eating, the burrito’s on you. Or if they drive you around frequently, just give them $10 to put towards gas. Little gestures can mean a lot.

If you don’t feel like participating in group gatherings on Valentine’s Day, take inspiration again from “Parks and Rec,” specifically Tom and Donna’s “Treat Yo Self Day.” Go on a spa day and shopping excursion, eat that thing with lots of calories, watch the entire season of a show of Netflix. Just go for it. Do whatever makes you happy.

Whatever you do, don’t be that person who complains about Valentine’s Day. No one wants to see your tweets about how the best part of Valentine’s Day is the half price chocolate on Feb. 15 or the Snapchat story about how you’re so lonely. Self-pity isn’t attractive and won’t make someone suddenly ask you out and give you the Valentine’s Day of your dreams. Instead, take it upon yourself to make it a good day and spend the time appreciating your friends and family.

If you are in a relationship this Feb. 14, do keep in mind that not everyone is, so try to be respectful and keep the PDA under control.
So this Valentine’s Day, instead of bashing the holiday, take it upon yourself to make it a great day, whether celebrating with your significant other, your friends, your family, or anyone else.