The holidays are a time to be spent around family, or so tradition states. If you find yourself alone for the holidays, it may be hard to reconcile that idea with the picture of a family sitting near the fireplace, opening presents. Instead of agonizing over what's missing, it makes more sense to create your own traditions.
Step 1
Decide well in advance what would make you happy. If being by yourself on Christmas will depress you, maybe you can find opportunities to volunteer, attend religious events or join other singles at parties or get-togethers. Having a plan means you won't feel lost and with nowhere to go once the holidays get there.
Step 2
Pamper yourself. This is the perfect time to book a massage, buy yourself something you've been wanting for a while or go ice skating. Since you won't be buying presents for others, spend some money on yourself. If you can travel somewhere, choose a tropical destination, where it will be all about the beach and the sun, and you'll be more likely to forget you're alone.
Step 3
Check into a hotel. Spending the holidays alone at home can bring about memories of everything you're missing. Instead of crying over what's missing, book a room at a local fancy hotel, or drive your car to the next town over and stay at a cozy bed and breakfast. Order room service and then explore events and activities in the area.
Step 4
Do it differently. If you're missing your loved ones, spending a traditional holiday by yourself can be depressing. Instead, make up your own celebration rules by doing something completely different to the expected. Order Chinese food instead of eating turkey, or watch a comedy instead of a holiday movie.
Step 5
Do something that connects you with the ones you're missing. This may be the perfect evening to organize your photos, start a scrapbook or take on a home project.
Step 6
Write to your loved ones. If you're overseas or in a different time zone, sit down at your desk when Christmas strikes on your area and write a letter to a loved one. Seniors in particular will appreciate getting a written token letting them know you remember them. Or write to a friend you haven't seen in a while or a sibling you had a fight with.
Tips and Warnings
- If you're feeling depressed, reach out. Lots of people feel lonely over the holidays, and hotlines or forums are a good way to connect with others who are feeling the same way.
