How to Survive a Solo Christmas

You're far from family or you're a loner, and find yourself without holiday plans. It doesn't mean you have to be miserable! I move so often I've been there, and there are definitely ways to make the holidays special when you're on your own.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• An open mind
• Good use of a search engine

1. The most fulfilling thing I think you can do is volunteer over the holidays. Many people mean to do it, but feel down and don't follow through. I can tell you that volunteering might turn into your greatest holiday experience. Run an internet search for local charities or churches that might need your help preparing or serving holiday meals, or distributing gifts. This work feeds the soul.
2. No plans for Christmas Dinner? Make the day a day to treat yourself. A lot of people go to the movies that day, and don't worry about going alone - many people go to movies solo, especially that day. Take yourself out to lunch, especially if you live in or near a big city, where a solo diner isn't likely to feel silly.
3. Find others in your area in the same position. A lot of online groups are popping up that are specifically for event planning - Meetup.com and Meetin.org are two that regularly schedule events for people who have found themselves without plans for holiday meals.
4. Go somewhere you've always wanted to see - even if it's local. There's nothing like getting out in nature or wandering around a city. Use the time to think of what you value in your life, and what you might like to change. But don't pressure yourself, just enjoy it in the "now".
5. If you can swing it, participate in an "adopt a family" program and purchase gifts from a family's wish list. Some post offices (such as the New York City post office) allow you to read through wish letters. Many local social service organizations offer the same. It's a great way to do some good and have fun Christmas shopping.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't feel down if you spend the day in front of the tube watching trash TV. Hey, maybe that's what you needed. And not everyone celebrates Christmas.
• If you do choose to send gifts to a family in need, it's probably best to find opportunities through a social service agency rather than respond to written ads, as those can be scams.