Single for the holidays
The holidays are around the corner and for many single people, it’s a harsh reminder that another year alone is coming to an end.
I know what I’m talking about because at 33 I’ve spent many winter months as a single woman.
It sucks, but I’ve learned to make the best out of it.
And while you might not be able to do anything against the stupid jokes of older family members, you can definitely make the best out of the season as a whole.
In this post, I’m sharing a few of the simple ways I enjoy the winter months even when I’m single for the holidays.
Things to do when you are single for the holidays
1. Visit family and friends
As daunting as it can be sometimes to go home for the holidays, spending time with family and friends is still one of the best ways to overcome loneliness.
Of course, you want to visit people that support and uplift you, rather than the ones that tend to make you feel anxious or irritated.
Create a holiday schedule and contact different family members. Make sure to cover thanksgiving dinner, Christmas day, and even New Year’s Eve.
Use the holidays as a unique opportunity to tighten your relationship with family members you don’t see much.
2. Binge-watch your favorite holiday movies
Eek, tip number 2 on how to survive being single for the holidays is my favorite one.
As part of my own traditions, I re-watch Harry Potter every year. And I always have the best time doing so.
I don’t know why but there is something comforting about watching holiday movies.
Whether you love Hallmark movies as I do, or you prefer old-school Christmas movies. Set up a holiday schedule, including all your favorite movies or shows, and invite your single friends over for a cozy night in. Complete with mullet wine, and some Christmas cookies.
That is a surefire way to get in the holiday spirit and spend some quality time with your besties.
3. Decorate your home
I think the worst thing you can do when you are single for the holidays, is to avoid getting into the holiday spirit. Contrary to common belief, taking part in the festivities despite your relationship status will make you feel better.
So start off by decorating your home. Get a Christmas tree, and some ornaments, and start transforming a corner in your home into a winter wonderland.
That will shift your mood in the evenings from dark and cold to warm and cozy.
Trust me, there is nothing better than cozy nights in to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year!
4. Get involved
One thing that throws me off every year is the fact that it gets so cold and dark in winter.
While I am blessed enough to only deal with the cold when I want to, there are other people that are less fortunate. According to a study, an average of 2 homeless people per week die in winter all over the US.
All these people usually need is warmer clothes, blankets, or a hot drink/ meal.
Thankfully there are organizations that already provide these things. So why not get involved and help out?
Research your local charities, non-profits, or soup kitchen to find opportunities in your neighborhood or city.
While being single for the holidays sucks, we have to remember that for some people surviving the holiday season means life or […].
5. Throw a holiday party
If you are looking to create new traditions this holiday season then a holiday party is just it.
Whether you are thinking about throwing an ugly sweater Christmas party, holding a Friendsgiving dinner, or even planning the annual company holiday party.
Holiday parties are always a great time!
Get creative and invite your close friends over for a night of food, games, and music.
6. Enjoy the lights
As mentioned before, I’m not a big fan of the weather during the winter months. But if there is one reason why I would leave the house, it’s in order to go to a Christmas market.
Now I’m from Germany, where we have plenty of them.
But even if you live in a city, where they don’t have a market, I am sure there is a place you can go to to watch Christmas lights.
Shopping malls, parks, and private homes will feature beautiful Christmas decorations that are worth visiting.
Take an afternoon or evening off to enjoy the magic of the holiday season.
7. Travel
A great way to forget that you are single during the holidays is to travel!
There are so many beautiful places where you will make new friendships, enjoy good food, and have fun. So why not?
All you need to do is decide if you want to go alone or ask a close friend. Find a destination that is fun and plan your trip. You can use your getaway as a time of reflection and relaxation or meet new people and indulge in new experiences.
Of course, you do not have to spend the entire holiday season away and can come back in time for Christmas morning or New Year’s Eve.
8. Get into the holiday cheer
I already mentioned that decorating your home will get you into the holiday spirit.
But if you want to take it to the next level, then consider some creative activities like writing holiday cards or baking Christmas cookies.
Nothing makes me happier than food and spreading love. So I make it a point to indulge in both during the holiday season.
You can bake cookies for yourself or make an extra badge to ship to friends across the country.
And while you’re at it, why not add a personal note with a Christmas card?
It’s important to remember that romantic love is not the only love you can give and receive during Christmas.
9. Go on a shopping spree
Is there ever a single women’s feel-good list that does not include shopping?
The holiday time is the perfect time to go on a shopping spree. Why? Because you have black Friday and other sales of course!
So instead of only buying gifts for your friends and family budget a little something something for yourself too.
How do I cope with being single at Christmas?
The best way to cope with being single at Christmas is to seek out community. It’s a mistake to think that love can only come from a partner.
The love you share with other loved ones is equally as important and something to celebrate and be grateful for during the holidays.
Focus on the things and people you have in your life, rather than paying much attention to the things and people that are absent. By doing that you will be able to tap into the power of gratitude and enjoy Christmas even as a single woman.
Is it OK to spend the holidays alone?
Yes, it’s absolutely OK to spend the holidays alone. Don’t feel obligated to spend Thanksgiving and Christmas with friends and family, when you don’t want to.
However, you don’t want to isolate yourself during the holiday season. Depression is very common in the winter months and often shows itself in your desire to be alone. If that’s the case for you, spending the holidays alone may only worsen the situation.
The last thing you want to do is to miss out on quality time with people that love you.