The holidays are approaching. For some of us, Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and before you know it, we will be barreling into Christmas. This will be my first Thanksgiving and Christmas as a single person in six years. I have to admit that it feels kind of strange.

I can’t say that I’m completely miserable about it. There’s a comfort in knowing that I don’t have the pressure of figuring out the perfect gift for my significant other. I also don’t have the angst of trying to figure out how to visit each of our families. In the past years, between the two of us, we were making appearances at several houses which gets expensive if you are expected to produce gifts and traveling all across the city. But, I will admit that I slightly miss the chaos. It’s comfortable chaos when you are in a relationship.

This year, it’s just me. It does put a damper on the holiday, but I remind myself that I still deserve to be celebrated. I”m working on getting back on my feet following the end of our relationship which hasn’t been easy. So, I decided to let myself off the hook this year. I will show up and be merry, but I will allow myself to feel whatever I feel.

Holidays can be difficult when you’re single. As you look at other couples sharing and showing love, you are reminded that there is just you. But, you have to remember that you are enough. You are worth celebrating. If someone questions you on why you are single, you can tell them that you just haven’t found the right one yet and you won’t compromise because you know that person is out there. Single doesn’t mean lonely. You can lived a fulfilled life as a single person. You should treat yourself to a special gift. Buy something you don’t often allow yourself. It can be something small or something big, but spoil and reward yourself for all that you’ve done to take care of yourself throughout the year. You can also share your love with your family and friends.

My advice to you is to use the holidays to remind you of all the great aspects of your life and think about how much you’ve accomplished this year. Focus on what is great in your life and celebrate you. You are the love of your life so maybe you should treat yourself to something that sparkles and shines. Give thanks for all that you have done on your own this year and all that you’ve been fortunate to receive. Remember that loving yourself makes it that much easier to love someone else. Be good to you this season.

“Find yourself first…like yourself first…love yourself FIRST…& friendship & love will naturally find YOU.” 
― Mandy Hale