The holidays can be a lonely time for people in college, especially students who live away from home. It is even more lonely for the introverts like me who are not naturally social animals. However, there are many ways to bring your frown upside down and enjoy the holidays and feel less alone. Here are some of my tips for combating loneliness over the holiday season.
Study in Coffee Shops
Coffee shops provide a cozy and festive environment. Many people go to coffee shops to work and study on their own, therefore it is a great way to meet new people and be around people instead of studying in intense library environments which can sometimes enhance loneliness.
Watch Funny Shows
Cuddling up with a fuzzy blanket and hot beverage while watching Netflix can be really fun. Wear fuzzy socks, use a face mask, and watch your favourite comedies and holiday films. Some fan favourites are Elf, Home Alone, and The Holiday!
Treat Yourself
Don’t forget that you deserve the world, and even when you’re feeling down on yourself, lonely, and insecure pick yourself up and cherish yourself because you will always have you. Go shopping and buy that lipstick at Sephora that you have been saving up for. Go see that movie that you have been dying to see in theatres. Dress up and go to your favourite restaurant and have a delicious and wonderful meal. Don’t feel the need to punish yourself because your friends may be posting Instagram worthy pictures of holiday activities they’re doing with their relatives. By making the best of your situation, this can help diminish “fear of missing out”.
Self Care
Self-care is very important, especially when your not your happiest. Make sure to remember that you are the most important, you are your priority and you deserve only good in your life. Make sure to go to the gym, eat healthy, listen to your favourite music and do things that make you feel happy inside. Also, do your makeup, wear your favourite sweaters. By looking your best, this can enhance an otherwise less than ideal mood.
Take Risks
If your feeling lonely but our nervous to try different things on your own, start small. Message a friend to wish him/her happy birthday. Go to a party just for an hour and see what happens. Even if you don’t meet anyone, your taking steps to meeting great people and making connections that you can’t make at home. Try and join clubs, take fitness classes where you can meet people but also do things on your own. That can build your confidence and show that you are great on your own as well.
Remember: you are not the only who feels lonely during the holidays, so many people do. Things work out and things get better, just make sure to take care of yourself and soon you will be a magnet that won’t be able to keep people away.