When You’re Alone at the Holidays: How to Feel Better

Thanksgiving is a holiday that is typically centered around family, friends, and gathering together to share a meal. However, for some people, being alone on Thanksgiving can be a challenging and lonely experience. Whether you’re far from loved ones or unable to attend social gatherings, being alone at the holidays doesn’t have to mean feeling lonely.

When You’re Alone at the Holidays

If you’re used to having Thanksgiving with a group of friends or family, and you find yourself alone at the holidays this year, it can be a little daunting.

But there are many ways to change your mindset and enjoy what can be a lonely experience.

Check out these suggestions and strategies for how to brighten your day when you’re alone at the holidays.

• Just because you can’t be there in person with your loved ones and friends doesn’t mean you can’t connect with them. Schedule a virtual Thanksgiving meal or gathering to share the experience with your loved ones. Video calls and virtual games can bring people together even if they are miles apart.

• Take advantage of your alone time to focus on self-care. Relax with a good book or treat yourself to a soothing bubble bath. This can help you recharge and take a break from everyday stressors.

• Volunteer your time to help those who may be struggling during the holiday season. You could volunteer at a food bank, homeless shelter, hospital, nursing home, or a community Thanksgiving event. This not only helps others but can also bring a sense of fulfillment and purpose into your own life. You may also make some new friends.

• Create a plan of fun activities you enjoy doing, such as cooking your favorite meal, watching a movie, or doing a craft project. Or get a head start on Christmas baking – the house will smell wonderful, and most desserts, especially, freeze well. These activities can distract from feelings of loneliness and help you stay engaged and entertained throughout the day.

• Take some time to focus on the good things in your life and practice gratitude. Write down things you are grateful for or create a gratitude jar to fill with notes throughout the day. Acknowledging the positives in your life can lift your mood and help combat feelings of loneliness.

• Take a walk or go for a hike in nature to get some fresh air and exercise. This can boost your mood and decrease feelings of loneliness. You could even plan a picnic in the park or set up a cozy outdoor space to enjoy your meal.

• There’s a lot to choose from for entertainment on Thanksgiving Day. From annual parades to football games to a host of Christmas movies, there’s something for everyone. Thanksgiving Day can also be a day to indulge a “guilty pleasure“: Stream a Netflix marathon of your favorite TV show or movie series, or treat yourself to a movie out, complete with popcorn and treats.

• Break out the Christmas decorations. Thanksgiving Day can be a nice time to begin decking the halls. The process of trimming a tree or putting up outdoor lights can keep you active and also give your spirits a boost.

• Plan a personal online shopping event for yourself. It’s not too early to start Christmas shopping, especially for the people on your list who may be challenging. Many stores may be closed on Thanksgiving, but lucky for us, the internet is aways open. This year, you’ll find many early Black Friday specials.

We Don’t Have to be Lonely When We’re Alone

Spending Thanksgiving (or any holiday) alone can feel daunting and isolating, but it doesn’t have to be.

By connecting virtually with loved ones, focusing on self-care, volunteering your time, planning activities you enjoy, acknowledging gratitude, and getting outside, you can make the most of your alone time and combat feelings of loneliness.

Embrace this opportunity as a time for self-reflection, relaxation, and appreciation for the good things in your life.

Or use the day to help get ahead of some Christmas shopping, decorating, or baking.

You are never truly alone when you have yourself and the opportunities that lie ahead.

Thank you as always for reading.

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KindCompassCoach

Joan Senio is the founder of KindCompassCoach. Her career includes 20+ years as a health care executive and 15 years (and counting) as a consultant. The common thread through Joan’s professional life has been a commitment to lead, mentor and coach current and future leaders, and women from all walks of life. KindCompassCoach provides information and advice grounded in Joan’s personal experience; however, all articles are backed by research and provide facts and advice from a wide variety of experts. Joan also serves as a thought-leader for KuelLife.com and is a regular contributor to PsychReg and Sixty and Me.