For many, the holiday season brings images of crowded family gatherings and bustling parties. But what about those who find themselves spending Christmas Day alone? A growing movement on social media, is showing that a solo holiday can be just as joyful and meaningful as a busy, crowded one. Instead of loneliness, many are finding community and inspiration online, to craft a day filled with peace, and festive celebration.
This shift in perspective is being championed by creators who embrace and celebrate solo living. They offer a refreshing alternative to the traditional holiday narrative, empowering their followers to redefine what a happy Christmas looks like. These videos and posts can be a welcome source of comfort, and a practical guide for thousands navigating the day on their own terms.
A Blueprint for a Joyful Solo Christmas
One creator setting the tone is Becky Hayes (@beckyannehayessssss), founder of the “Solo Girling” community. In a video that has resonated worldwide, she shares a beautiful and intentional itinerary for anyone spending Christmas Day by themselves. Her approach is not about simply getting through the day; it’s about curating an experience that is genuinely special and uplifting.
Hayes suggests starting the day with gentleness, by not setting an alarm. Let your body wake up naturally, easing into the morning without any pressure. Once you are up, she recommends putting on some pleasant Christmas music, like holiday jazz, to create a calm and festive atmosphere. Save the more energetic, classic Christmas anthems for later in the day.
Next on the agenda is a lovely breakfast. This is a chance to treat yourself. Hayes encourages viewers to make it as special as they desire, perhaps by enjoying smoked salmon or even a bit of caviar. A glass of champagne or another favorite celebratory drink is also highly recommended. It’s about making the meal an event in itself. After breakfast, she suggests opening any cards or gifts you have received. A thoughtful touch she adds is to send a quick message to the givers, expressing your thanks and sharing the moment with them from afar.
Embracing Peace and Connection
A key part of Hayes’s plan involves getting out of the house. Staying indoors all day can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation, so she advises going for a nice holiday walk. Breathing in the fresh air and moving your body can significantly lift your spirits. For those feeling a bit more adventurous, she even suggests popping into a local pub for a festive drink, a nod to her British roots.
Upon returning home, it’s time to “hunker in” and get cozy. This is the perfect window to connect with friends and family. A video call or a phone chat allows you to share holiday wishes without the stress and obligations of a large gathering. Following these connections, the focus turns to preparing a delicious Christmas meal. Hayes emphasizes taking your time and making exactly what brings you happiness, whether it’s a traditional feast for one or something completely different. Putting on a favorite festive movie or playlist can make the cooking process even more enjoyable.
As the afternoon winds down, she suggests changing into comfortable pajamas, breaking out a nice box of chocolates, and settling in for a movie marathon. Hayes also offers a powerful piece of advice for moments when sadness might begin to surface. She reminds her viewers to consider the many people who are in crowded situations they would rather not be in, dealing with family drama or conflict. Being alone provides a unique opportunity to control the tone of your day and choose peace.
@beckyannehayessssss It really does sound quite appealing 🫶🏼@Solo Girling #sologirling ♬ original sound – Becky Hayes – Solo Girling
The response to her video has been overwhelmingly positive, with thousands of likes and a comment section filled with gratitude from both men and women. One commenter wrote, “Here’s me Solo man’ing this year, going to do this.” Another shared, “This made me feel a lot better about today thank you!” Others added their own solo Christmas traditions, like volunteering at shelters or going for a long run.
Every day is what we make of it, and holidays are no different. Spending Christmas alone doesn’t have to be a source of sadness, it can be a chance to soak in the quiet moments, create your own traditions, and embrace the peace of a day designed entirely as you choose. Rather than a “last resort”, spending the day solo can be embraced as an opportunity, a chance to celebrate the holiday in a way that feels authentic and joyful for you this year.
