Things to do if you're alone on Christmas

Whether work, illness or any other circumstance is to blame, some of us will be spending Christmas Day with just ourselves for company this year.

A potentially upsetting predicament, there are ways to give December 25 shape and meaning, even if you’re facing it solo.

Here are a few ideas for making a Christmas alone bearable – and maybe even enjoyable…

1. Have a schedule and a plan

In normal life, Christmas Day is almost always plotted out. Having a bit of a plan in place, and making sure you get up and out and about, will hopefully help stave off the desire to stay in bed feeling upset.

2. Indulge in a marathon film day

Either go all out on the Christmas films, or see this is an opportunity to mentally escape. Pick horrors, epic travel documentaries, or outrageous comedies. Get the popcorn ready and enjoy!

3. Plan a cooking challenge

Never made a Wellington before? Want to attempt a Michelin star meal? Now’s your chance to tackle one, make a total mess of the kitchen, all without any pesky backseat chefs - and you get to eat the lot of it.

4. Don’t overcommit on the phone calls

You’ll likely end up resenting it and being bombarded. Instead, think about what you’d like to do and who you’d like to speak to – and get the times plotted in, so you know it’s happening.

5. Treat yourself

Spending December 25 alone does not mean you need forgo the cheese board or the tin of your favourite chocolates. Or presents for that matter. You’re worth it. Don’t scrimp on the treats.

6. Go for a walk or festive run with a friend

If you have a friend nearby, why not ask them out for an hour for a festive walk or run? Everyone needs a bit of fresh air on Christmas Day. And if you’re both spending the day alone, it’s a good chance to have some company.

7. Take a long cycle or a road trip

We so often get trapped in front of the telly at Christmas; so consider breaking up the day with a bike ride or a scenic road trip. Fingers crossed it’s beautiful and frosty.

8. Do something different

Something that you’ll love but would never get to do at your usual family Christmas – whether it be staying in your PJs for as long as you like or going for a festive swim. Or contact your local charity to see how you can help volunteer over the festive season

9. Turn Christmas Day into a spa day

Soak in the tub, stay in your dressing gown, apply a face mask, try some meditation, play soothing music and block out the rest of the world.

10. Agree with your family to abandon the day entirely

Reschedule Christmas for January!

11. Prioritise you

Christmas is tough enough as it is; being kind to yourself is crucial.