By Bridget Poputa-Clean, Ad/Marketing Director

A recent post from Hack College gives some insight on how to survive what some consider the most ill-conceived and tortuous “holiday” that exists.  I fancy myself a seasoned Valentine’s Day boycotter and here are a few tips of my own to help you survive the day.

1.  Celebrate all of the love in your life every day of the year.

Yes, you can celebrate love on days other than Feb. 14. People love on you all year long.  Thank them for it.  Write little notes of encouragement to those you cherish.  Buy gifts and flowers for loved ones on random days throughout the year when they need a pick me up.  We shouldn’t need a designated day that prompts us to be loving towards other.

2. Don’t eat the chalky heart candies

Ingesting chalk cannot be good for your health.  Sure, the words are fun and sometimes clever, but they are much more suited for forming nonsensical sentences than for drying out your mouth.

3. Let people appreciate you

This is a pointer that I am still working on.  It is sometimes difficult to accept compliments and words of love.  Do others a favor by letting them shower you with love.  It may feel uncomfortable, and it may seem that you are being crushed beneath the establishment of Valentine’s Day, but you’re really doing them a favor by giving them an outlet for the mushy gushy love feelings.

For more Valentine’s Day survival pointers, check out Making Valentine’s Slightly Less Nauseating at Hack College.