If you’re reading this, there’s a strong chance Valentine’s Day is tomorrow and you’ve just realized you are, in fact, still single.

First of all: Breathe.

Second: Congratulations, you still have time. Not a lot of time, but enough time to send a few texts, put on real pants and see what happens.

Here’s your low-stakes, emotionally responsible guide to securing a Valentine in under 24 hours.

Step 1: Redefine “Valentine”

A valentine doesn’t have to be your soulmate!

Your Valentine can be:

• Someone to grab coffee with
• Someone to share dessert with
• Someone to walk around campus with
• Someone who says yes to being photographed for Instagram

Aim for connection, not a proposal.

Step 2: Send the Text

You know exactly who this is about. Send the message. Keep it simple:

• “Hey, are you doing anything for Valentine’s Day?”
• “Random question: Want to grab coffee or dinner tomorrow?”
• “This is me shooting my shot… free on Feb. 14?”

Is it scary? Yes. Will it take approximately 3 seconds? Also yes. Will you feel great afterward? Maybe.
Worst case: They say no.

Best case: You have plans!

Step 3: Be spontaneous!

Last-minute invites are Valentine’s Day love language. Group hangs turn into one on one. Coffee turns into a walk. Dinner turns into dessert. Let the night unfold.

Sometimes romance doesn’t arrive with fireworks, it arrives with “Do you want to keep hanging out?”
Say yes.

Step 4: Call on your friends

Friends are just unpaid matchmakers.

Tell them you’re single. Let them make introductions. Accept the double date. Your friends know people. You know people. This is basic networking, just make it romantic. This is how miracles happen!

Step 5: Romanticize your own life

If none of this works, congratulations! You’re now your own Valentine.

Buy yourself flowers. Get the fancy chocolate. Watch something cozy. Wear your favorite outfit for no reason. You do not need another person to have a good Feb 14.

So take a breath. Send the text. Smile at the cute person. Be bold for 30 seconds. You’ve got 24 hours, and that’s plenty of time to make something sweet happen. Happy Valentine’s Day, and may your flirting be effortless, your plans be cute and your heart be full!