How to Spend the Holidays Alone

Take this opportunity to spend some quality time with yourself. You've been stressed and perhaps overworked all year. Now is the time to relax and enjoy some days off undisturbed, away from the bustle of every day life.

First off, turn off your cell phone or unplug your phone line. Think of the holidays as the time to get back in touch with yourself.

Sleep in. Take naps as needed. Holiday means rest.

Treat yourself to a nice dinner or cook your favorite meal at home. If that is too much work, order pizza or get carry-out.

Indulge in your favorite treat whether it be chocolate cake or potato chips. You deserve it.

Put on your favorite music. Sing your heart out. Dance if you so wish.

Watch a funny comedy and laugh yourself silly.

Wrap yourself in a warm blanket and watch a horror film with all the lights out. Don't forget to pop some fresh popcorn.

If you've got pets, cuddle with them.

Grab that book you've been meaning to read for some time and sit on the couch with a cup of hot chocolate.

Take a hot bubble bath.

Light some candles around the home to create a peaceful atmosphere.

If you're a woman, paint your nails with a bright nailpolish. Have a nice glass of wine (or two).

If you're a man, sit in front of the television, beer in hand, or play video games. You're not procrastinating today; you're enjoying yourself like you should.

Evaluate the past year. Think of all the positive things that you have accomplished no matter how small they are.

Then make a list of New Year's resolutions. If you're feeling ambitious, write up a life plan with long-term and short-term goals. Picture yourself accomplishing them.

Being alone on the holidays does not have to be a sad event. If you sit there and feel sorry for yourself, you are indeed going to be unhappy. However, if you focus on making yourself feel special, this holiday may turn out to be better than any other holiday you've spent in the company of others.