Valentine’s Day is infamous for its candy hearts, chocolate, and overt proclamations of love, but underneath all that flamboyant extravagance, Valentine’s Day at its root is overrated.

Now, I know when you hear people talk about how much they dislike Valentine’s Day you assume they are bitter about being single, but there are plenty of reasons why this holiday misses the “great” holiday ranking.

For one, why are we using one day to show love to our significant others and friends? Using this holiday as an excuse to be romantic or loving is just dumb in my opinion. Why is a dinner and flowers February 14 more special than any other of the 365 days in a year?

I think random acts of love throughout the year are way better than forceful dates, gifts, etc. on Valentine’s Day, and I personally would rather celebrate people when they aren’t expecting it.

Valentine’s Day as a whole is just an expectation to be big and romantic which just doesn’t sit right with me. It also creates unhealthy competition among couples to live up to this expectation. Everyone wants their lives to look perfect, and this holiday is another excuse to further that want. People are constantly trying to one up each other with dates and presents which doesn’t make sense because I thought it was all about love.

And who doesn’t love their Valentine’s Day candy and chocolate? I can get behind these tasty snacks, but the prices are outrageous. Every year before this holiday, prices skyrocket making eyes roll at the checkout line. Companies know everyone cannot get enough of this foolish holiday, so they figure “why not charge more!” So much for the most bearable part of Valentine’s Day!

I think we place way too much value on Valentine’s Day. Don’t fall into the trap of romantic competition, overpriced chocolate, and forced love. Always tell your loved ones how much they mean to you, but for my sake, do it any day besides February 14!