Not everyone has as large family or friendship group to celebrate the festive period. Perhaps you’re in a foreign country for work, your family makeup has changed over time, or your life situation just means you’ll be alone this year, you may feel a little concerned about what to do.
Never fear, because spending Christmas alone isn’t as uncommon as you’d imagine it. After all, not everyone even celebrates the Christmas festivities, be that due to a lack of interest, or perhaps cultural and faith-based tradition.
Moreover, you don’t have to spend this in complete and total isolation, there’s a great deal of activities still happening, even if the main day itself can be a little less active.
That being said, on a day when so many people are together and celebrating, you may feel a little disconnected from being alone. So, here’s how to make the most of that period alone, and have a great time:
Consider Seasonal Accommodation
Depending on where you live, it might be nice to head out and experience comfort elsewhere. This way, you can enjoy the festivities of the day without necessarily feeling cooped up in your four walls. Heading to a hotel booking website and finding a comfortable room to stay in, soaking in a bubble bath or in-room jacuzzi unit, reading a paperback, and ordering room service sounds like a wonderful time.
Moreover, the general hustle and bustle of a hotel like this during the festive period can help you feel a little less cooped up and separated from the local festivities. Right up until Christmas Eve, people will be around, even if some businesses won’t be for a few days after.
Indulge In Your Entertainment
It’s nice to just spend time away from work, away from obligation, away from the constant feeling of productivity, and to spend time with some entertainment. Catching up on your favorite TV shows, subscribing to a movie service and immersing yourself in the latest titles, or watching concert videos can be a fantastic middle ground.
Sometimes, a little escapism is very very healthy, especially at a time dedicated to relaxing and feeling comforted. You still have time to call your loved ones, to write in your journal, and to generally arrange your day-to-day living affairs, but here you’ll learn the value of sitting down. You shouldn’t feel guilty about it at all.
Cook A Delicious Meal & Don’t Worry About Calories
If you’re not cooking for others, you can bring together some delicious delights and eat with as much indulgence as you want. It’s the festive period, so don’t worry about calories or dieting for now. Moreover, don’t overstretch yourself. It’s perfectly fine to pick up a rotisserie chicken from the supermarket or head to the deli counter, chop up the meat, and make a delicious casserole.
If you felt so inclined, maybe you could order takeout if you like doing so, as not all cultures will consider this a holiday and you’ll be supporting local businesses on a quiet day for them. Depending on your preference, you can even bring some dessert or a nice glass of wine or non-alcoholic cocktail, and enjoy yourself in warm comfort. Nothing sounds quite as comfortable as that. Enjoy the fact that you don’t have to wait on people, and relax.
Treat Yourself
You may have already brought home your festive shopping, but there’s one person you could have forgotten – you. Yes, you deserve to be pampered as well. It’s nice to treat yourself, especially on a day dedicated to celebrating those who matter. So, what would you most like to enjoy?
For some, it can be different. Maybe you’ve been meaning to purchase that acoustic guitar you’ve been walking past in the shop window on your way to work, or you’re inclined to purchase yourself that brand new coffee machine to make your “rocket fuel” moment each morning a little more delicious. We all have those purchases we’ve had our eye on but can never quite justify, and luckily, the festive period means you don’t have to justify this to anyone.
Now, if you’re trying to keep your expenses down, that’s fine too. A small treat like a nice box of chocolates, a new pair of slippers, or perhaps a couple of skincare products can be a nice place to start. Just make sure you do give yourself something because you deserve it as much as anyone.
With this advice, we hope you can enjoy a wonderful Christmas, no matter who you’re with or if you plan to celebrate your own company.