How to Survive A Holiday Alone

December 25th I spent my first Christmas alone. I learned several things I’d like to share with anyone who finds themselves in my shoes. I hope you don’t.

Don’t focus on what you are NOT doing. This is a great time to recharge your batteries and pamper yourself with some extreme self care. Put on your favorite music, light some candles and take that bubble bath that normal work days do not allow. A glass of wine would be relaxing but do not drink to excess. Alcohol is a depressant, which leads to feeling sorry for yourself and the “oh so shameful” Drunk Texting and tears. Treat yourself to a face mask facial, color and condition your hair. Get dressed. DO NOT sit around in your pajamas feeling sorry for yourself. Go for a walk, breath the fresh air in deep, but don’t walk past residential areas where family and happiness abound. Be sure to eat, and don’t feel like you are missing out on the traditional holiday meal. A pizza, sub sandwich or homemade tacos can be fun. Rent a movie, a comedy. They say laughter is the best medicine. Don’t watch the clock. That will only make you feel as if the day will never end. Remember your personal reason for the season, but: IT’S ONLY A DAY! A day like any other that big box stores, Hallmark and on-line merchants have made us feel as if we are losers if we aren’t having egg nog and hot chocolate around a perfectly decorated tree with a perfect family. Tomorrow most of us will be back at work and Valentine’s paraphernalia will erase those Santa’s and perfectly wrapped gifts. If you find yourself still alone at Valentine’s Day I highly recommend sending yourself flowers to your office and smile like a Cheshire cat after their arrival. February 15th treat yourself to all the half price chocolates. Being alone doesn’t mean we have to be lonely. It’s a state of mind.