Hello Friends,
The holidays are often portrayed as a time for togetherness. However, they have a way of amplifying feelings of loneliness for many. Whether you are feeling alone during the holidays because you are separated from your loved ones by distance, struggling with grief, loss, or broken relationships, or feeling out of place at the gatherings you are attending over the holidays, know that it is okay to feel this way.
Loneliness is often looked down upon as something to avoid or be embarrassed by. In reality, it is a valid emotion that is hard to cope with. If you are feeling alone over the holidays, that is okay. It is a reminder of how important connection is. Luckily, feelings, like seasons, eventually pass, and I promise you you will not feel this way forever. However, for this season you are experiencing, here are 3 ways to cope with feeling alone during the holidays.
Reframe Your Idea of the Holidays: Whether due to distance or loss, this holiday season may look very different for you. This is an excellent opportunity to make new holiday traditions and lean into this change. Maybe you can finally do that holiday movie marathon that you never had time for before or try baking a new cookie recipe. The perfect holiday doesn’t have to include a big party. The holidays can be just as meaningful when focused on self-care and making your own new traditions.
Focus on Small Connections: Allow the connections you make this holiday season to be meaningful, no matter how small. Strike up a conversation with someone at a holiday market, really be present while on the phone with family and friends, have hour-long conversations with your pets, or get out and volunteer. Giving back can be a powerful way to help you feel connected to your community.
Take Care of Yourself: In times of loneliness, self-talk becomes much louder and, thus, much more critical. Make sure you are being kind to yourself. If you struggle with this, challenge yourself to talk to you the way you would to a friend or loved one. Allow yourself to feel your emotions, prioritize your needs and rest when needed. Part of caring for yourself is expecting and preparing for the difficult days. If you are looking for self-care ideas for the holiday season, I have a blog post that you should check out!
If the holidays feel extra heavy this year, know you are not the only one feeling this way. The most important thing is that you are kind to yourself and do your best. Although this holiday season may not look how you hoped it would, you can still find ways to make it meaningful and memorable.
I am sending so much love to anyone out there who is feeling alone this holiday season. I am always here for you!
Until Tomorrow, My Friends!
P.S. I’m proud of you 😉
