This week of dreary weather has affected singles everywhere. Some called old flings to ‘Netflix and chill,’ some laid alone in bed, succumbing to the tragic realities of their love lives, while others called upon their friends, only to find that they were indeed chilling with ‘bae’.

Whatever your scenario, weekends like this can be horrifying. Enjoying rainy weekends without a bae is an art that we all must learn.

Spend time alone

Despite what you may think, the best part of being single is being alone. During alone time, you are able to focus on yourself. You get to know who you are and what you need. In a relationship, you are forced to juggle satisfying your needs and the needs of your partner. During rainy days, spend time on things that bring you peace. Read a book, watch a movie, or flip through your favorite magazine.

As a single, I realize that rainy days meant for ‘Netflix and chill’ are some of the only times I can be alone. Therefore I try to use the time wisely and balance out my energy. By drinking hot chai or green tea and watching documentaries all day, I am able to wind down and relax. I often enjoy silent meditation, but also indulge in a more upbeat decompressing technique: jam sessions. I connect my phone to my Bluetooth speaker and play many of my favorite jams on Spotify or Soundcloud.

Being alone doesn’t always have to be a spiritual trip promoting self-realization and instant growth. Spending time with yourself simply allows you to relax, find peace and be lazy. Next time you’re alone on a day designed for cuddling, grab a body pillow and order some Chinese. You will be fine!

Spend time with other single friends

‘Hurricane and chill’ days also allow you to bond with other single friends. Instead of spending time soaking in your loneliness, find friends who feel the way you do on these couple friendly days. Order pizza, listen to music, play cards and share single stories. Spending time with fellow singles enables you to understand that there are others just as miserable as you.

Over this rainy weekend after I became bored of my own company, I drove over to my friend’s apartment, where we danced around and went on late night food runs. Spending time with friends enhanced the joy I already created from being alone.

Staying in good company can be as important as being alone, because good friends are truly the ones who make your heart smile.

Focus on school

The last and least appealing rainy day option is to spend time focusing on school. If you don’t have an interest in chilling with friends, bust out the books. Complete assignments ahead of time, or catch up on work you may have missed. Read the chapter regarding the lesson for your next class. Do the studious things you wouldn’t necessarily do if you weren’t lonely and if the sun was out.

Over the weekend, I ignored this advice. I procrastinated my school work as I would on an ordinary and busy day. I seized the opportunity to be lazy rather than productive. Don’t be like me, do your work. Though I am sure you all would prefer to do the same thing, don’t eliminate focusing on school from your options.

I’m sure ‘Hurricane and Chill’ was tremulous for many true singles, however, the next time inclement weather comes between you and your social life, craft your experience ahead of time. Don’t allow being alone make you feel lonely.

If all else fails, campus is too ‘lit’ on rainy weekends. People enjoy throwing parties during terrible weather. Go out and shake your single tail-feather. Who knows? you may just leave with a new ‘Netflix and chill’ buddy.

Jana Shaw – Word Editor

– Email Jana at janatheword@ gmail.com and follow The Register on Twitter and Instagram @theatregister