How to Get Through the Holidays Alone

Holidays are all about family, so it can be challenging to spend the holidays alone. 

The first year after I moved into my new apartment, I caught a bad cold. I missed spending time with family, especially those who visited out of town that year. We were able to spend some time together, but it wasn’t as expected due to the circumstances. 

Whether it’s a bad cold or a new work schedule, it can be challenging to be in the “holiday spirit” when you’re spending the holidays alone. Here are a few things you can do to bring cheer to your life this holiday season.

Connect with loved ones

If you’re alone this holiday season, it will be good to reach out to loved ones virtually. Schedule a virtual call with your family, send text messages to friends or send out holiday cards. It may not be in person, but spending time with loved ones will help you feel less lonely.

Be open to new traditions

We associate many traditions with the holiday season, from decorations to baking cookies. Don’t be afraid to switch traditions or make modifications that best fit being alone for the holidays this year. 

If a Christmas tree feels overwhelming to put up and decorate, buy a pre-decorated tree or let go of the tradition this year. Some new traditions to consider are attending church, enjoying a day at the movies, or creating a playlist of your favorite Christmas carols by Black artists. 

Enjoy some self-care

With the busyness of the holiday season, it can be a welcomed treat to enjoy a self-care Christmas at home with no plans to be out all day. Enjoy a hot bath, listen to a podcast or start reading the next book on your list. 

Consider taking a break from social media. Your feed will be filled with families in their Christmas pajamas, which can be triggering or make you feel more lonely. Taking a break during the holiday season can be the best self-care for your mental health. 

Volunteer

If you’re feeling lonely, volunteering can help you feel a part of your community as you help others. Nonprofit organizations that are looking for volunteers to help families in need.

Give gifts to children of low-income families. Bring donations to your local food bank. Volunteer at a homeless shelter or local soup kitchen. Make holiday cards for your local hospital and nursing home. 

Prepare for the new year

Late December is a time of reflection. We’re thinking about the joys and sorrows of the year coming to an end as we prepare for the new year. 

One of my favorite late December activities is creating a vision board. It gives me perspective on what I want to accomplish in the new year. Use older issues of Black magazines, such as Ebony and Essence, or other independently owned publications. 

Other new year preparations include cleaning out your closet, organizing your space or finances, donating items you no longer need, or creating a plan to eat healthier and exercise more in the new year.

Practice gratitude

If you’re feeling lonely, practicing gratitude can be a great way to change your perspective. Instead of focusing on being alone for the holidays, it helps to consider the many things you’re grateful for in life. 

Reflect on one thing you are thankful for and how it has helped you in life each day. For example, having a car helps you get to work, spend time with loved ones and find new adventures.

Spending the holidays alone can be an opportunity to reflect, practice self-care, and prepare for the coming year. May this holiday season bring joy to you in all the ways you choose to celebrate.

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