Sometimes the biggest source of holiday blues can be your relationship status. You don’t need a man by your side to feel the love this holiday season. We checked in with Shanae Hall, author of For Single Ladies Only: Everything You Need to Know to Date Smarter, to get advice on being single and fabulous this season – and how to maybe even snag a great date for the office holiday party too. Read her handy tips and tricks.
Be the Belle of the Ball
Hall says you shouldn’t turn down a holiday party invitation this season. “Yes, go to all the parties that you can,” she suggests. “There are single people at holiday parties looking for love just like you. Just make sure that when you go, you stand out like the brightest star in the sky on a dark night. Pay close attention to every detail of your ensemble. Your hair, nails, make-up, shoes, accessories and perfume should all work together perfectly as one harmonizing work of art. Make everyone ask, ‘Why are you single, again?’”
Stay Away From Romantic Comedies
“There is nothing worse than watching romantic movies over the holidays if you’re single,” says Hall. “You know, the one where the guy goes after the girl and professes his love to her and then they share the most passionate kiss that the world has ever seen? That’s fake. It’s a movie, and you live in the real world. Save yourself the emotional roller coaster ride and stay away from Hollywood’s love fantasies at least until January.”
Buy Yourself An Awesome Gift
“The best part about being single during the holidays is that you don’t have to wonder if your man is going to buy you a sweater that you hate or a vacuum cleaner because he thinks it’s sexy when you clean,” jokes Hall. “This year, spend the money that you would spend on a boyfriend on yourself. Merry Christmas to you!”
Get Into the Holiday Spirit
“You don’t have to deck the halls with holly, but you can fill a bowl at work with Christmas candy and place some Christmas lights in your front yard,” says Hall.
Give Back
Always remember that the true meaning of Thanksgiving and Christmas is to reflect on our blessings and be grateful,” says Hall. “Find a homeless shelter, a food bank or a church that is serving meals to the less fortunate and volunteer your time.”
Seek Out Other Singles
“Try to limit your time around folks that are ‘booed up.’” Says Hall. “It will make the holidays seem long and drawn out if everywhere you go your married friends are kissing and exchanging gifts all the while you have to hide your slightly brewing jealousy under your winter sweater. Don’t torture yourself. Hang out with your single friends and family as much as you can. Plus, the single jokes are funnier when you’re with people that are in the same boat as you.”
Get In the Kitchen
The smell of your favorite holiday food and desserts in the air reminds us of how blessed we are that the holidays are upon us once again. “Even if you just make a small meal for yourself, get into the holiday spirit by perfecting your specialty dishes and being thankful for all that you do have,” Hall adds. “And, if you have a special someone in your life that you do have an interest in, stop being shy and invite him over. Or, at least offer to bring him a plate. There is nothing sexier than a person that can cook!”
For more dating tips, pick up Hall’s pocket guide, For Single Ladies Only: Everything You need to Date Smarter. Follow Hall on Twitter here.