How To Survive The Holidays When You’re Single AF

Ugh, couples. Here is your guide to surviving the holidays when you're single AF. (Hint: lots and lots of holiday movies!)

It’s that time of year again. The holidays are fast approaching and you don’t want to be the third wheel again especially with all of the parties and family gatherings coming up. Does it ever feel like they just become a constant reminder of how you are single for the holidays yet again? It’s always harder to shake that lonely feeling away when it’s supposed to be “The Most Wonderful Time of The Year.” If you are feeling like this isn’t the best time for you right now, here are some pieces of advice on how to survive the holidays when you are single AF.

1. Take some time for yourself.

When the holiday season gets crazy and you feel stressed out not just because you don’t have that special someone in your life but because of all of your other responsibilities (school, family, friends, job etc.) take a step back and just breathe. Make time for something that you have always wanted to do and just go for it! You deserve it and honestly, what’s stopping you?! You can accomplish so much when you’re single AF.

2. Smile away!

When your family members at holiday parties start to ask you the dreaded question, “Do you have a boyfriend or girlfriend?” It’s sometimes just best to let it roll off your shoulders, smile, answer and move on. Even though you don’t want to be asked this question, it’s their way of showing that they care even though it never feels like that at all. Just keep in mind that it’s never a good feeling to feel alone but it’s going to be okay and it doesn’t make the situation any better being annoyed at your family. Plus, they are the ones that are always going to be there for you. It’s the season of forgiveness after all.

3. Siblings stick together (especially when you are all single).

When you are at a crazy family holiday party, to maneuver through all the craziness and have someone that 100% understands what you are going through, what better way than to have your siblings who are in the same boat as you be by your side. If they aren’t single and bring their significant other to the party, then good luck but if you like their boyfriend or girlfriend then even better!

4. Free Foood!!!

Some holiday parties you either don’t have to pay for anything or bring something that isn’t too expensive. Enjoy the perks! There’s nothing that beats the feeling of when you feel blue like free food, drinks and being with loved ones.

5. F is for Friends who do stuff together!

When you go home for the holidays, hang out with the squad and friends you normally wouldn’t have the chance to see when you are at school. Take this time off as an opportunity to make fun, lifelong memories. Don’t just watch Netflix all day or dwell about being sad when you’re single AF. Make the most out of your time off!

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6. Watch holiday movies.

Watching some of the classics or even new holiday movies is the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit. This might seem counterproductive but if you decide to look at that romantic comedy in a positive light, this can be fun and enjoyable!

7. Retail Therapy

If watching holiday movies isn’t your thing, retail therapy always seems to do the trick. To make it even more productive and a meaningful experience- shop for your loved ones! Yes, you deserve to get a little something for yourself too but why not get some shopping done and get your loved ones gifts at the same time a.k.a. killing two birds with one stone.

8. Even though it sucks, realize what you have and appreciate it.

You’re probably sick of hearing this too but you have so much ahead of you that when you look back on this, it won’t feel as bad as it does to you right now. All of us have our moments of not having someone and that’s okay. It’s not the end of the world. Appreciate what you have, be present in the life you’re living right now and just know that it’s going to get better. Until you meet that special someone, take this time to get to know you, your loved ones and just love yourself.