How to avoid loneliness during Christmas

In every commercial, on every television special during this time of year, we are reminded that Christmas is a time to be with family and a reason for celebration, yet there are many of us who find themselves alone and often times sad during this ought to be "cheery" holiday. In this article I will offer up ways to avoid the feelings of loneliness that sometimes accompany Christmas.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• An open mind.
• A willingness to try new things
• A desire to give

1. One of the best ways to avoid loneliness during the holidays is to surround yourself with others, who also may be lonly. Volunteer. Offer to serve the homeless their holiday meal. Hand out gifts to needy families. Sometimes the best way to make yourself feel better, is to fill the needs of others.
2. Carrying on in the spirit of giving, offer to work for someone on the holiday. If you are destined to be alone for Christmas, you might as well give someone else the opportunity to share that time with their family. You may even enjoy working on the holiday, rather than being alone and dwelling on the fact.
3. Have a movie marathon. Go to the video store and grab as many feel good movies as you can find. Even ones you have already seen, that you know make you feel good. Don't forget to load up on goodies. By keeping your attention on the television, you will avoid concentrating on the idea of being alone.
4. Splurge a bit. Call someone long distance that you haven't talked to in a while. This will, hopefully, raise your spirit and that of the one you call.
5. Turn on some delightful christmas music. Do some experimental cooking. Dance around the house like no one is watching, because guess what, they aren't:)
6. Indulge yourself. Even if you have no one to dote on you during the holidays, that doesn't mean you can't dote on yourself. Buy something extravegant for yourself that you would normally pass on.
7. Go to the movies. Many theaters offer free or discounted movies during the holidays. It will keep your mind off of being alone, and you won't actually be alone.
8. All of these suggestions are viable ways to avoid feeling lonely during Christmas, but as I mentioned above, the best way to rid yourself of loneliness is to offer companionship to someone else who might be lonely. Nursing homes are great places to find people who are starving for some companionship. Check out local singles groups. Deliver unexpected gifts to people in your community00