Whether you like it or not, the holiday season is upon us. And that means seeing your family in-person (or over Zoom) - and still being asked if you’re going to settle down soon. Most Hallmark Christmas movies will have you believe that the only means of surviving the holidays is to have a significant other by your side; what with the mistletoe, fireplaces, and three girls from high school getting engaged, it’s hard not to fall into feeling sorry for yourself.
But girl, let me tell you how being single ALWAYS has its perks.If you are also a single gal this holiday season I’m here with ya sister and we can get through this together. Grab a bottle of your favorite wine and some Holiday White fudge Oreos because I’m about to let you in on my secrets to getting through the season with my sanity intact.
Don’t binge the Christmas chick flicks
As delightfully heartwarming as they are, I have to keep reminding myself that the big city doctor who ended up in a small town and found love through the true meaning of Christmas is about as real as Kylie Jenner’s lips. Being swept up in romance this time of year is especially triggering, so maybe instead of telling Netflix that you’re still watching, you could try listening to a podcast or reading a book instead!
Drink responsibly
While drinking can make us feel temporarily happy, we’ve all had those nights where we’re ugly crying and pretending every sad song is about us. Alcohol impairs your judgment and can make you feel nostalgic, anxious, sad, scared, and overwhelmed. So while it might be fun to have a little bit of spiked eggnog, if it’s going to end in drunk dialing your ex, maybe push that second glass away and opt for a hot chocolate.
Surround yourself with supportive people
Probably the most important piece of advice I can give you is to surround yourself with supportive people. If you’re continually around toxic energy, it can be emotionally draining. And while you might not be able to leave 15 minutes into dinner, don’t spend all day long for several days surrounded by people who don’t make you feel esteemed.
Take a break from social media
One of the things I have the most difficulty remembering is that a lot of the posts on social media are carefully curated to make things seem better than they are. Taking a break from manufactured happiness can really do wonders for your soul. When I go on social media fasts, I like to reflect on what makesme happy - and that’s usually a bubble bath and entirely too many candles with a romance novel.
Do what makes YOU happy on New Years’ Eve
I was surprised to learn that not that many peopleactually go out on NYE. Dancing the night away with your girls could really be what you want to do - but it’s totally fine if you’d rather spend the night in your pajamas hosting a make-your-own-sushi night and playing board games. You do you, girl.
Treat yourself
Still, wish you were receiving a diamond for Christmas? Buy yourself a piece of meaningful jewelry. Having FOMO about not having a romantic getaway? Go on a weekend trip with your girls. Whatever it is, being single means you get to put yourself first.
If you find yourself dreading being single over the holidays, try to instead relish in it. You might one day look back fondly and longingly on your single life.Who is to say that if we had a significant other our holiday season would be any better? It would honestly be more stressful trying to find him the perfect gift and wondering if he’s getting you a pair of diamond studs or a gift card to Target.Both sound good to me.
