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If you’ve suddenly found yourself having to spend Christmas alone this year, here’s some advice from ya gal, who’s been doing it for the last 5 years:
Firstly, remember it’s just a day. Just a regular old day. Not even Jesus’ real birthday. Christmas can happen whenever the hell you want it to - and if that means waiting until it’s safe to see your loved ones, then so be it.
There are some ways to make it easier. Obviously different things work for different people, but here’s what works for me:
Alcohol ain’t gonna make it any better. The temptation to drink a whole bottle of Baileys during the queen’s speech is strong, but I find it usually puts me in a pit of depression before I’ve even seen the Doctor Who Christmas special.
Don’t bother cooking a whole bloomin’ roast dinner. It’ll only leave you full of memories of Christmases past. Sure, have it on the 24th or 26th - that’s what I do because I bloody love Christmas food. But on the 25th I’m having Pad Thai and nobody can stop me.
Get outside (if you can do so safely) and have a Big Fat Walk
. Last year I walked around central London and sat listening to a busker in Trafalgar Square for ages. It was lovely.
. Last year I walked around central London and sat listening to a busker in Trafalgar Square for ages. It was lovely.
Or go for a big drive - the year before last I curated the perfect playlist and spent the entire day driving around South Devon. Sat on the seafront for hours looking at the sea. Highly recommend.
Don’t be afraid to reach out. A lot of people are going to be feeling lonely this year. Talk to someone you wouldn’t usually talk to.
If you don’t get a response, don’t take it personally. Often I’m not in the headspace to respond on Christmas Day, but still appreciate a message.
If you don’t get a response, don’t take it personally. Often I’m not in the headspace to respond on Christmas Day, but still appreciate a message.
Basically, just treat it like any other day. Have a nap. Drink a coffee. Go for a run. Read a book. Draw a thing. Look at some water. Eat a vegetable. Swear at the cat. Listen to a podcast. Reminisce about how the Doctor Who Christmas special used to be better.
Most importantly, spare a thought this year for the people who never have a normal Christmas. Those who work, who have no family, who are stuck in an unsafe environment, or have trauma surrounding the holidays. Stay safe, be kind. X
