Singles Guide to Surviving the Holidays

The holiday season seems to underscore your single status. This year, make it a point not the let the couple-heavy parties and probing questions get to you. You can enjoy the holidays solo, and we'll show you how.

It starts with the turkey and stuffing. Then it’s time for presents and mistletoe. And only moments later, it seems you’re toasting to another new year.

The holiday season can seem like a blur. And you may be wondering how you are going to survive it this year. You ponder how you’ll hold on to your sanity when you show up at event after event…single…again. You wince at the thought of withering stares from Aunt Martha and awkward conversations about dating with your boss.

But we’re here to tell you there is a way to emerge from the holidays at peace with every part of your single self. All it takes is some preparation and the right perspective.

Surviving the Holiday Parties
Your company party invitation hangs on the fridge. There’s a message on the machine about your friend’s cocktail party. An e-mail sits in your inbox about a singles event. Your holiday calendar is not going to book itself – so it’s time to prioritize. The key is not to over-commit. Don’t make socializing a chore. Politely decline as early as you can if you can’t make it. However, make every effort to hit the events you’ve agreed to attend. It’s just polite and you’ll feel better about yourself.

To bring a date or not – that is THE question: You can always appreciate the company of a good date, especially if your plus one is a friend you tend to have a blast with consistently. However, if you think you need to work overtime to keep your guest entertained, it’s probably not worth the consideration. Don’t force an awkward date, if you don’t have to. The last thing you need is to play babysitter at your holiday party and create more stress for yourself.

An equally great option is to go stag. Yes, we are saying you can go alone. In fact, the holidays can be an opportune time to meet people and widen your dating circles. When it’s just you, there’s no pressure to keep someone else happy. Mingle freely without worry, and leave when it’s best for you.

At the company party: You may not have a romantic relationship at the moment, but you can never go wrong by investing in your professional relationships. Be a successful single. Build your personal brand at company events.

Get to know your colleagues on a personal level. Chat with the CEO and senior-level management. Introduce yourself to people you don’t work with daily. Just keep in mind that all the rules of the office apply, and keep all the socializing professional.