10 Ways to Connect If You're Spending the Holidays Alone

Holidays are generally associated with feelings of togetherness, joy, and celebration.

However, being alone during this time is difficult, whether by choice or need.

It can bring about feelings of loneliness and sadness.

Today let’s talk about 10 things you can do to connect during the holiday season.

1. Celebrate online with family and friends using WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger, even if they live far away. Just have a friendly chat and recall about the good times with them.

2. Set up a virtual movie night with family and friends to watch Christmas classics like Harry Potter. You can do this using Zoom, Google Meets, or Microsoft Teams.

3. During the Christmas season, many organisations, particularly churches, hold events and carols. You can even volunteer for community activities with them, which provide food, clothing, and other essentials to those in need.

4. Keep an eye out for public fireworks displays at Galle Face Green and Christmas celebrations at close by hotels and restaurants. They also have special Christmas menus that you can enjoy!

5. Prepare your favourite food or bake cookies/Christmas cakes and enjoy them while watching a good movie.

6. Attend Christmas markets or fairs, such as those in Colombo's malls, to connect with others and enjoy the holiday season with them.

7. Visit a park, beach, museum, art gallery or hiking path to reduce feelings of loneliness.

8. If you know someone else spending the holidays alone, arrange a small get-together or enjoy a meal with them.

9. Write about your achievements / drawbacks and make realistic goals for the upcoming year. This is a great way to welcome the year with fresh perspectives.

10. Be grateful even for the small things in your life, such as the morning cup of tea and forgive yourself for any mistakes made throughout the year.

Always remember that connection is more than just being with others; it is about finding a meaning in your own experiences.