QUESTION

Hi Julia,

This Christmas, how are you planning to celebrate? Will you travel somewhere? Sadly, this time, I won’t be visiting my parents. I don’t know how I’ll spend the holidays alone, but I am simultaneously excited. Can you suggest some solo Christmas ideas? I hope to cross this off my bucket list by having a wonderful solo Christmas.

Thanks, and Merry Christmas to you.

Love,

Josie!

ANSWER

Hi Josie!

It’s no secret that the holiday season brings gifts, twinkly lights, and love from friends and family. But being alone at Christmas is bliss, at least for me. It offers an opportunity to cultivate self-love. When you’re alone, you don’t have to conform to the traditions or routines of others. (Buying yourself presents isn’t a sin either.) Here are some ideas for enjoying the holiday season alone, perhaps even making it a tradition.

Cozy Up your space!

Transforming the aesthetic of your house during Christmas is not usual; it feels unfinished.

This December, if all you have is a bed, you can recreate your childhood by decorating it the way you want. Put up your Christmas lights and let your Christmas decorations do the talking for you. Get warm and fuzzies going by scattering some pillows and blankets everywhere.

You can never go overboard with Goofy. Since Christmas is supposed to be silly, so go ahead and jazz up your space.

Get your Netflix ready!

Put your streaming service to work! The holiday season has a movie to suit everyone’s tastes: whether you’re looking for a holiday classic or a nostalgic cartoon. (Check Netflix’s current streaming lineup) They can be distracting and time-sinks, so if you feel blue about being alone, put one on and unwind.

Treat Yourself!

Of course, Christmas is about celebrating love, peace, and stuff like that. But, uh, let’s not forget the swag.

When playing Santa for yourself, don’t be modest. It is your wish list. Get what you’ve always wanted. No regifting, no smiling while exchanging gifts, no socks either! It’s Christmas time! Be a big shot or else! It’s all about you, so pamper yourself!

Sip on spiked drinks!

Drinking alone is often considered depression, loneliness, or a symbol of alcoholism by some. Christmaszilla! You can concoct many alcoholic drinks this holiday season, and they are easy to make. You can sip on traditional holiday drinks like hot chocolate spiked with rum or warm eggnog.

It doesn’t take much to create a warm, fuzzy feeling inside. The festive spirit, a couple of liquors, and plenty of mixers are all you need for an extra-cheery Christmas.

Pump up those carols!

Snow and rain, shiny shine, sleigh bells ring in the air. “Santa Tell Me” and “Let It Snow” and “All I Want for Christmas is You” still echoes in my ears. Get into the festive mood with these songs filled with cheese and cheer. Don’t forget to listen to your favorite pop artists on our Spotify Christmas playlist. Blast those tracks loudly to startle your neighbors. Tune out the cold and tune in to the Christmas music.

Therefore, I wish you nothing but the best. Be merry and eat well, my soloist. Sometimes it’s wise to live this way. YOLO. Have a safe and happy holiday.

Love

Julia