Christmastime is rapidly approaching! And whether or not you're religious, the holiday has become so central to our culture that it's impossible to escape. Christmastime often inspires a feeling of romance, as this is the most popular time of year that people get engaged. Not to mention all the cheesy holiday films that we watch about falling in love.
The cold weather makes us want to cuddle up with someone and live that stereotype. But this is unfortunately a rather sad time of year, as well. Those who suffer from depression often experience it more intentsely around this time of year, and it's theorized that being surrounded by the happiness of others gives us a feeling of inadequacy.
On top of all this, our culture is so focused on relationships that it's hard to tell yourself that you don't need to be in one. So if you're having a hard time dealing with being on your own for the holiday season, here are a few tips to get you through to the next year.
1. Remember that movies have brainwashed all of us.
That fun list of cheesy, romantic holiday movies might be nice, but to what extent is it healthy? These movies don't at all portray reality, and while we all know that, it's hard to internalize it. Sometimes too many of these laboratory-grown romance movies can make us feel lonely or inadequate -- that our love lives aren't perfect like the ones we see on screen. We've been fed these plotlines all our lives; it's hard to remember to step back and know that these are incredibly unrealistic. Maybe avoid them altogether if you're finding yourself sadder and sadder after each one.
2. Surround yourself with friends and family.
This may sound like an obvious one, but I think too many people are too content to sit in their own loneliness when there are people who love them that are just a phone call away. Go out with your hometown friends, spend time with your parents, do whatever you need to do to detach yourself from loneliness.
3. Buy yourself a present.
You've had your eye on that new book, videogame, pair of earrings, leather wallet, whatever it may be. Get it for yourself. You've bought everyone else a present, get yourself something. Maybe you want a new haircut or a fancy meal. Do it for you, don't sit around and wait for anyone else!
4. Do something YOU want to do.
What's your hobby or favorite past time? Maybe you want to start painting, or yoga, or an instrument, a new language. Remember: you're an individual and you should embrace your own likes and dislikes. Maybe you want to go see some Christmas lights, or drink some fancy hot chocolate. Do something that makes you happy.
5. Download a dating app.
This sounds crazy. But sometimes it's nice to remind yourself why you're not in a relationship. There are some weird people out there that you don't want to interact with. Just don't spend all your free time people-watching.
6. Remember that YOUR value is not determined by anyone else.
You don't need a relationship to be happy. Only you control your own happiness. Ask yourself what YOU want.
