How To Enjoy Christmas When You’re Single

Christmas is traditionally a time for family friends and love, but what about when you’re a rural single deep in the countryside? Although you may not have found your country love in time for Christmas, it doesn’t mean that the festive season has to be bleak and cold. Christmas is a magical time whether you’re dating (and if love is blossoming with your Muddy Match then let us know – we’d love to hear your #MuddyEverAfter story), in a committed relationship or whether you’re single. Today we’re here to convince you why, and to arm you with some wonderful festive tips to help you enjoy the festivities and embrace the Christmas magic! Consider us to be your very own muddy elves.

1. You are not alone

Feelings commonly associated with being single are loneliness and isolation, especially if you seem to be surrounded by hundreds of happy couples showing off their love. It’s important to remember that you are not alone and there are so many other people out there in the same situation as you. If you’re worried about passing another Christmas by yourself, then we really recommend you try to accept it (it’s hard, we know) then harness that energy and focus it on something positive and productive. Buy yourself a present, remember all the great benefits of being single (PJs at 4pm – hello!) and enjoy doing Christmas ‘your’ way.

2. Prepare for the inevitable question

There’s always a well-meaning aunt or uncle who, after a sherry or two, asks, ‘So, why are you still single?’. WE GET IT. Whilst this question could send you into a tumbling pit of despair and self-questioning (‘What’s wrong with me? Why AM I still single?’), take a breathe, stay calm and reply politely. We prefer the pleasant conversation-stopper ‘I haven’t met the right person yet’ or maybe be a little more pass-agg with ‘Do you really need to ask that question?’ Then, offer another sherry or swiftly turn the conversation on to something less controversial – their questionable taste in Christmas jumpers, perhaps.

3. Treat yourself

With time off work and money to spare (after all, you haven’t had to buy a significant other a present), you can afford to put yourself first. You too deserve a lovely Christmas present, so head out and get something you really want or treat yourself to a day out. We love the idea of a horse riding lesson in the great outdoors, a trip to somewhere you’ve always wanted to go but never had time for, or even an indulgent spa day.

4. Don’t wallow in pity

If sitting on the sofa and singing your heart out a la Bridget Jones is tempting then stop right there. Get yourself out of that pity pit, shower and dress and get out and about. Taking positive action will brighten your mood and a dose of countryside air is a lot more nourishing for your soul. And… you never know who you might meet.

5. Remember the benefits of being single

We’re not denying that relationships are good. After all, we’re all about matching countryside singles on our niche online dating site, Muddy Matches. But when you’re single there are a whole load of benefits that you need to relish. When you’re single you can do Christmas exactly the way you want to. There is no pressure to split your Christmas break between two different families, no need to compromise on how to spend your time off and no awkward ‘How much do I spend on a Christmas present?’ drama. Think about the positives of your situation and relish them whilst you can!

6. Avoid the romantic Christmas movies if you’re teary

Bridget Jones’ Diary, Love Actually, It’s A Wonderful Life… all gorgeous films but all ones that may ram your single status home. Turn those off and pop on something a little more lighthearted or non-romance based. Our favourites? Star Wars, Mamma Mia 2 and The Grinch.

7. Get on to online dating

Did you know that Christmas is one of our busiest times for our countryside dating site Muddy Matches? We have over 290,000 singles, all in the same position as you. And just think! If people are off between Christmas and New Year they’ll have ore time to get online and search for love – and maybe even start chatting with you!