Breakups suck, regardless of what. But when you split with someone right before the holiday season (aka “the most magical time of the year”), it may add an extra layer of sting to an already uncomfortable situation.
Just because breakups really are a bummer, does not mean your holidays has to be.
While it's natural to feel a little lonely during the holidays – especially if you're recently single – there's actually plenty of benefits of being single throughout the holidays. With no obligations toward someone and their family, you are able to focus all your attention on making the holiday season magical for you. You are able to spend time with whoever you want, do nice things for yourself and eat as much pie as possible with zero regrets (hopefully you're already doing these things for yourself anyways, but may we need an indication!)
So if you’re single, don’t stress. Here are some tips on how to not just survive, but thrive like a recently single person this holidays.
1. Pamper yourself.
If your date ghosted you prior to the holidays, make use of the money you'd stashed for their gift to do something nice for yourself. Whatever the time of year, I've always discovered that among the best steps you can take following a breakup is obtain a hair-cut. There's something about “shedding from the old” to look and feel my favorite that always provides me with an extra pep within my step. So, book that hair appointment, schedule that massage and go in for that pedicure. Not into pampering? Buy your gift — something no one else would buy for you. Heck, do all of it! You deserve it.
2. Spend time with other single folks.
Power in numbers, my buddies. Instead of merely trying to avoid the inherent couple-vibe of the holidays, look for fellow comrades. Some of them may be within the identical boat while you. Now's time for you to get in touch with them. Plan an epic evening out together with your best buds. Invite your single friends over for any cozy evening with mulled wine, goofy holiday sweaters and all the cheese. At the end of your day, it's all about surrounding yourself with people you love and creating new memories together.
3. Spend time with your pals with kids.
Looking to obtain reacquainted using the magic of the holidays? Spend more time with children and enjoy this time around of year through their eyes. If you have friends with kids, make a plan to hang out with them and make a move holiday-themed. Bake some gingerbread or go take a look at the local Santa Parade or perhaps a tree display.
Better yet — offer to babysit which means that your coupled friends can have a much needed night out to themselves. It's almost impossible to feel bummed out regarding your relationship status when you are spending time with tiny humans that also have confidence in Santa. (Bonus: when their sugar crashes hit, you're able to give them their parents and return to your cozy single person apartment.)
4. Make a move nice for another person.
One of the easiest ways to feel good this holidays is by doing something nice for another person. Whether it's inviting a friend who's far away using their family to spend the holidays along with you or volunteering your time and effort for any worthy cause (toy drives and soup kitchens always need extra help), find some ways to give back this holidays. You may also meet some other men and women by doing this.
5. Be quiet and do stuff that feed your soul.
While it's not hard to get caught up in the hubbub from the holidays, make sure you take some time to focus on yourself –beyond pampering yourself and filling your time with fun distractions. Decelerate. Take a yoga class. Spend an evening meditating or journaling your emotions. It likely sounds a bit “woo-woo” but putting aside some quiet time on your own is crucial – particularly if you're just coming out of a break-up.
6. Stay open.
Just because you're single right now, does not mean you'll continually be. If you fill your holidays with awesome people and things that make you feel good, you're that rather more prone to attract someone who has done the same. They might even be wielding a ladle at the local soup kitchen as we speak.