Holiday Survival Guide: Christmas & New Year's Eve

*I would like to state that I am very happy for all of my recently engaged friends.  Seriously, congratulations to all of you!*

It should come as no surprise to you that this is the hardest time of year for single adults.  The days are shorter, bank accounts dwindle because of gift buying, and having to face another family get together without a significant other could result in a frown from grandparents.  Believe me, I'm right there with the rest of you!  And for a long time I dreaded the holiday season because I had to "face it alone."  So here are a few tips to help you out over the next couple of weeks, especially if you're extremely sensitive to others showing off their relationships.  

1) Stay Off Facebook.  I'm not kidding.  I logged into my account today and realized that 5 of my friends have gotten engaged recently.  And while I am very happy for all of them, I would be lying if I said that my heart didn't hurt a little bit.  I don't often mind that I'm single, because I have some great friends who love me a lot, but it's not always peaches and cream.  Staying off of Facebook will allow you to enjoy your Christmas a little more without having your nose rubbed in your singlehood.

2) Don't Watch Sappy Christmas Movies.  They can make your heart hurt too because they center around a couple getting together and falling in love, and then they kiss right as the snow begins to fall.... and all of a sudden you're no longer content in your singleness.  You're throwing popcorn at the TV and signing up for eHarmony.  Go see Saving Mr. Banks, it's a good movie with no romantic plot lines of any kind.  

3) Go Out With Friends.  The best way to spread Christmas cheer is laughing with your friends for all to hear.  Single friends are fun because you can have a good time and not focus on being single.  This is really great for NYE because then no one is really going to kiss each other.  Unless you want to pull a FRIENDS move and everyone picks someone to kiss at midnight.  Isolating yourself during the holidays will make it easier for your to spend your time on Facebook and Netflix, so really, going out with friends is a great option.

4) If Your Grandma Hasn't Been Run Over By A Reindeer.... then she might ask about your love life.  Mine does, all the time.  I usually tell her that there is no one in my life that I think I am well matched with, and she will leave it at that.  This response lets her know that I'm not lame, or that I'm a cynic.  It simply states that I am open to a relationship but that I am being picky enough to not date someone I have no business being with.  

5) Volunteer.  There are a lot of places to volunteer during the winter, and focusing on those who are less fortunate than you can really help you get your perspective.  It will help you see that you have a lot to be grateful for, and while you may be single- you're not alone.  

6) Get Rid Of The Mistletoe.  Why do you even have mistletoe?  Throw that away!

Happy Christmas To You All!  -Sparkly

Comments