The holiday season can be a time filled with warmth, love, and joy. However, for those who are single or without a partner, it can also be a time that highlights loneliness, heartache, and sadness.

The world around us seems to be constantly reminding us of what we don’t have, from the romantic holiday movies to the displays of couples walking hand in hand. But, there are ways to navigate this season without feeling completely loveless and heartbroken.

1. Focus on Self-Love

The first step to navigating loveless holidays is to focus on self-love. Take this time to do things that make you happy and are good for your mental and physical health.

This could include taking a day off of work to relax, go for a hike, or indulge in a spa day. You could also try starting a new hobby or learning a new skill. Taking care of yourself will not only make you feel better physically, but it will also help you to appreciate yourself and build confidence.

2. Surround Yourself with Loved Ones

We are not just talking about romantic love, but love in all its forms. Reach out to friends, family, and other loved ones who are important to you. You can organize a group activity, like having a potluck or going to a concert together.

Spend time with the people you love will help give you that warm and fuzzy feeling, and remind you that you are valued and appreciated by others.

3. Set Boundaries

The holidays can be stressful, and being single during this time can be even more overwhelming. This is especially true if you feel pressure to do things you don’t want to do or go to events you’re not interested in.

Make sure to set boundaries and prioritize your needs. If you’d rather stay home and watch movies instead of attending an awkward holiday party, that’s okay. Don’t push yourself too hard and know that it’s okay to say no to things that don’t feel right for you.

4. Try Something New

Sometimes getting out of your comfort zone and trying something new can help break any negative cycle or thoughts.

Take this time to either try something new that you’ve always wanted to do or book a trip to somewhere that you’ve always wanted to visit. Traveling can have a positive effect on your mind and help you in having a different perspective on the holidays.

5. Volunteer

Another way to feel good about yourself is to give back. Volunteer at a local soup kitchen, donate clothes to a local shelter, or visit an elder’s home, this can be a way to spread some love for the holiday season.

Volunteering can help you put your life and holidays into perspective, often making your own circumstances pale in comparison. Not to mention, you will brighten up someone’s day!.

6. Practice Gratitude

Another positive way to shift your focus is to practice gratitude. Think about what you’re thankful for and focus on the good things in your life. It can be simple things such as having a roof over your head and being healthy.

Gratitude has been shown in multiple studies to have a positive impact on mental health and well-being.

7. Treat Yourself to Something Special

The holidays are a time of giving, and that includes giving to yourself. Buy yourself something that you’ve had your eye on for a while or treat yourself to an experience that you’ve been wanting to do.

This can be anything, from a fun night out to a shopping spree. It’s important to make yourself feel special, even if it means buying yourself a gift this holiday season.

The holiday season is filled with posts from friends and family, from engagements and pregnancy announcements to romantic holiday pictures. Seeing these posts may make you feel like you’re missing out on something.

To avoid these feelings of inadequacy, limit your time on social media or take a break from it altogether. Remember that these posts only show a glimpse into a person’s life and that you don’t have to compare yourself to anyone else.

9. Start a Digital Detox

Planned your digital detox and take some time off the screen. Digital detoxing is disconnecting from devices — smartphone, laptop, TV, social media – anything that requires the internet.

Taking a few days without any electronic devices can do wonders for your mental and physical health. This would not just turn your focus from material things that may be disappointing but encourage the mindfulness of life itself.

10. Take Control of Your Thoughts

Last but not least, it’s important to remember that you have control over your thoughts. Whenever you have a negative thought about yourself or your situation this holiday season, make an effort to replace it with a positive one.

This may seem challenging, but over time it becomes easier. By doing this, you are essentially reprograming your brain to think more positively, which will have a positive impact on your mental health.

Remember that navigating the holidays doesn’t have to be a negative experience. Putting in some effort and trying new things can help you to look at the brighter side of life and enjoy the holidays to the fullest.