Getting Through the Holidays: A Guide for Navigating the Season with Grace

As the holiday season approaches, I want to take a moment to acknowledge something few people talk about: not everyone is thrilled about the next few weeks. For many, the holidays bring stress, loneliness, and a magnifying glass to the things we feel are missing in our lives.

I get it—because up until recently, I was one of those people. As a single person with adult children living their own lives and friends busy with their families, I’ve often found myself keenly aware of how alone I am during this season. Now, don't get me wrong—I love my life. I spend the year traveling, exploring, and soaking up adventures that fill my soul. But when the holidays roll around, it’s hard not to feel the cultural weight of togetherness, big family meals, and endless festivities.

Let me just say this: if you’re not in love with the holidays, you’re not alone. And this post isn’t here to guilt you into loving them either. Instead, I want to share a few unconventional ideas that have helped me (and many others) move through this season with a little more joy, ease, and peace of mind.

1. Travel: Change Your Scenery, Change Your Mindset

Plan a trip—whether it’s a quick getaway to a cozy cabin or a sunny escape. A change of scenery can reset your perspective and remind you there’s a whole world out there beyond the holiday hustle. Book an Airbnb in the woods, visit a city you’ve always wanted to see, or jump on a last-minute flight. Bonus points if you go somewhere warm and soak up some vitamin D.

2. Be Brave: Ask to Join Someone’s Celebration

If you’d love to spend the holidays with others but don’t have plans, reach out to friends or coworkers and let them know. People hosting big family gatherings often have room for one more, and many are delighted to extend an invitation. Here’s the thing: people might not think to invite you—not because they don’t want you there, but because they assume you already have plans. Take the leap and speak up; you might be surprised at how welcoming people are.

And if you’re the host, think about who in your life might be spending the holidays alone. A simple invitation can mean the world.

3. Volunteer: Fill Your Heart by Helping Others

There’s something magical about giving back, especially during the holidays. One year, I couldn’t bear the thought of spending Thanksgiving alone, so I made care packages filled with sandwiches, snacks, socks, and handwritten notes. I walked around Chicago handing them out to people experiencing homelessness. The connections I made and the gratitude I saw reminded me of the power of human kindness. Volunteering—whether at a shelter, a food pantry, or even through your own creative idea—can turn a lonely holiday into one of the most meaningful days of the year.

4. Take a Hike: Nature Is the Best Medicine

Escape the holiday chaos by heading into nature. Find a forest preserve, hiking trail, or park and spend the day soaking in the peace and beauty of the outdoors. Pack some snacks, dress warmly, and let the crisp air clear your mind. Mother Nature has a way of healing the heart like nothing else.

5. Log Off: Social Media Isn’t Real Life

Let’s face it: social media during the holidays can be a nightmare. All those perfect family photos and festive gatherings? Most of them are staged highlights, not reality. Behind those smiles are the same family dramas, unspoken resentments, and stresses we all face. Take a break from scrolling and spend that time reconnecting with yourself instead.

6. Ignore the Calendar: It’s Just Another Day

Who says you have to celebrate the holidays traditionally? Treat it like any other day and focus on something productive. Paint a room, clean out a closet, reorganize your pantry—whatever brings you joy or makes you feel accomplished. One year, I painted my kitchen cabinets pink and my walls purple, and to this day, walking into that space makes me smile. Do something just for you.

7. Remember: This Too Shall Pass

Good times and bad times both have one thing in common—they don’t last forever. If the holidays are hard for you, remind yourself that this season will pass. The stress, sadness, or loneliness won’t last forever.

Give Yourself Grace

The holidays can be a harsh reminder of what’s missing—whether it’s family, friends, or traditions. But you’re not alone. Most people I talk to find this time of year emotionally taxing, and that’s okay. Take care of yourself. Do things that nourish your soul, and remember, winter is a season for going inward, resting, and recalibrating.

So, whether you’re traveling, hiking, volunteering, or painting your kitchen cabinets purple, know that you’re doing the best you can. And that’s more than enough.

Take care of yourself this holiday season—you’re worth it. ❤️