Why Not . . . Enjoy the Holidays Even if You’re Single?

The holidays can provide daunting situations for those of us who are single whether by choice or by circumstance, and while many blockbuster romantic comedies portray both single men and women longing to find someone to snuggle up with next to a crackling fire or schmooch with under the mistletoe, the truth of the matter is, being single during a time of year with such high expectations can actually be something to celebrate and revel in.

While the grass always tends to appear greener to singletons, believe it or not, the same often holds true on the other side of the fence as well at times. Therein lies the lesson. Why can’t we enjoy our situation no matter what our relationship status? Believe it or not, there are many things to enjoy and take advantage of when you are single during the festive and gregarious time of year. Here are just a few:

1. Travel Opportunities

Being single opens up an entirely new realm of possibilities when it comes to where and how the holidays are spent. Tired of the traditional Christmas Eve parties and New Year’s festivities? Plan ahead and purchase a ticket to some place warm and devoid of traditional holiday cheer. Instead dive into the warm Mediterranean or bask in the sunshine in Australia.

2. Freedom at Parties

Which parties are attended and for how long one stays becomes a bit more difficult when two people are involved. The freedom as someone who is single is that you can come and go as you please depending up on your mood and your no doubt overly booked schedule. Be sure to thank the hostess before leaving and be on your merry way whenever the mood strikes.

3. No In-Laws to Appease
While you may choose your significant other, you can’t necessarily choose your in-laws, and not everyone is lucky enough to strike the gold mine twice. Not having to worry about spending time with those who don’t appreciate you or understand you is a blessing. Enjoy it while you can.

4. Go Where You Want

Not being in a couple provides the freedom to choose where and with whom you want to spend the holidays with. Prefer your mother’s Christmas Day crème brûlée, but want to drive home Christmas night to sleep in your own bed, go for it. It’s your life. You’re an adult, and you can plan your life accordingly. Just be sure to thank you mother profusely and let your know how much you appreciate her.

5. Save money
While there are many aspects to enjoy while being in a relationship, a wallet flush with cash isn’t usually one of them during the holidays season. And while the money is usually spent willingly, is still drains the budget.

6. Buy Yourself a Christmas Present
Since money is being saved, why not spend a little on yourself. There will be endless after Christmas sales with drastically reduced prices. Take a day and hit a favorite boutique and purchase that dress/coat/pair of heels you’ve had your eye for months. You’re more than worth it.

7. Celebrate Your Life Decisions

The most important relationship you have in your life is the one you have with yourself. Even if other family members or friends don’t understand why you are single, continue to remind yourself that you are choosing to live by your own rules and create your own happiness that isn’t dictated by the outside world. After all, if you’re not looking out for your best interest, no one else will either.

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