As a single parent this time of year can be filled with bittersweet emotions. Family and friends are gathering together to celebrate the holidays. While this is an exciting time of year, it can be hard for a single parent to attend such gatherings when they are attending on their own. It can be isolating at times to be in a room full of people with families and children running around when yours aren’t there. Not only are your children gone, but you don’t have that special someone by your side to help you endure it. You can be in a room full of people and still feel completely alone. It is something that most people don’t think twice about, unless they are the one that is experiencing it.
The next time you are invited to a holiday party, make a conscious effort to reach out to people that are there. You may not have a significant other there, but there are lots of other single moms in the same boat this holiday season. Why not take one of them instead? It is much less isolating for both of you if you have someone by your side that understands what you are going through. Don’t shut yourself away just because your kids aren’t there. The holidays are a time to celebrate with friends and family, take advantage of this and spend some time with them. You don’t often get to have an adult conversation without little ones piping in every few seconds. This is that opportunity.
You can still have a good time. It may be a little uncomfortable at first, but it is up to you to change your focus. You can enjoy the night, or you can decide to be miserable. It is all about choices. Celebrate this time of year, whether you have your little ones with you or not.