If you’re single this winter, these 8 habits will make you feel happier alone

Being single in winter can make many of us cringe.

As the weather gets colder, we might find ourselves longing for someone to share that cozy blanket with, someone who’ll bring us hot cocoa when the temperature drops.

But let me tell you something:

Being single doesn’t mean being miserable. Far from it.

In fact, there’s an art to being single and happy, especially during the winter months.

Believe me, I’ve been there. And you know what I learned? It’s all about cultivating certain habits.

In this article, I’m going to share 7 of these habits with you. They’ve helped me enjoy my solitude during the winter and I hope they’ll do the same for you.

1. Embrace solitude

Solitude often gets a bad rap, but it shouldn’t.

There’s a big difference between being alone and feeling lonely – and that difference is all in the mindset. Being single during the winter can feel like you’re the only one not wrapped up in the arms of a loved one, but that doesn’t mean you’re alone.

In fact, being by yourself can be quite empowering.

This winter, instead of longing for what you don’t have, embrace the solitude. Use this time to learn more about yourself, your likes and dislikes.

It’s a perfect opportunity to explore new hobbies, dive into books you’ve been meaning to read, or even binge-watch your favorite series without anyone judging your choice.

Make the most of your alone time this winter. Trust me, you’ll come to appreciate the peace and quiet solitude brings.

And who knows?

You might just discover that being single isn’t so bad after all.

2. Take advantage of the joy of ‘me time’

Being single in winter — it’s time to flip the script.

Truth be told, solitude can be a gift if we learn to embrace it.

Especially during the winter months, when the world slows down a bit. It’s the perfect time to enjoy our own company.

Now, I understand if ‘me time’ sounds a bit daunting or lonely. But trust me, it’s neither.

In fact, it’s an opportunity. An opportunity to delve into your hobbies or interests, to read that book you’ve been putting off, or simply to relax and unwind.

Remember, being alone doesn’t equate to loneliness. It’s about relishing your own company, enjoying your own unique rhythm.

And once you start doing this, you might just find that you’re happier than ever before.

3. Cultivate self-love

Lucille Ball, the famous actress and comedian, once said, “Love yourself first and everything else falls into line.”

This quote always resonated with me, and it makes even more sense when you’re single.

When you’re in a relationship, it’s easy to lose yourself in the process of loving someone else. But being single gives you the golden opportunity to turn that love inward.

This winter, make self-love a habit. Start with small acts of kindness towards yourself.

It could be anything from treating yourself to a warm bubble bath on a cold evening, indulging in your favorite comfort food, or simply spending a lazy Sunday in bed.

Don’t just stop treating yourself. Take the time to appreciate who you are as an individual. Write down things you like about yourself or achievements you’re proud of.

These might seem simple, but they go a long way in boosting your self-esteem and happiness.

4. Connect with nature

Did you know that spending time in nature can significantly boost your mental well-being?

Apparently, even just a 20-minute walk in the park can improve your mood, reduce stress, and increase feelings of happiness.

This winter, make it a habit to connect with the outdoors. Yes, it might be chilly out there, but that’s part of the charm. Bundle up, grab a hot drink, and head out for a walk.

Pay attention to the crunch of snow under your boots, the frosty air filling your lungs, and the beauty of bare trees against the winter sky.

You could also try some winter activities like ice skating, sledding or even building a snowman. Not only will these activities get your blood pumping and keep you warm, they’re also a lot of fun.

So this winter, don’t let being single keep you holed up indoors.

Get out there and embrace the beauty of nature. It might just be the thing to lift your spirits and make you feel happier alone.

5. Get social

While the winter months might be synonymous with snuggling up with a significant other, who’s to say you can’t enjoy the company of other people?

Friends, family, or even new acquaintances can bring warmth and joy into your winter days.

Organize a movie night with your friends, have a family game night, or invite your neighbors over for a cup of hot cocoa. You could even join a local club or community group and meet new people.

Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.

Sure, it’s nice to enjoy the peace and quiet of being alone. But socializing with others not only helps to break the monotony but also provides a sense of connection and belonging.

6. Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness. It’s a term we often hear, but do we really understand what it means?

Simply put, mindfulness is the ability to be fully present, to be aware of where we are and what we’re doing, without becoming overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s happening around us.

And let me tell you this: it’s a game-changer.

Research shows that practicing mindfulness can improve our well-being, reduce stress levels, and increase our capacity for happiness. Sounds pretty good, doesn’t it?

So how does one practice mindfulness? One way is through meditation. Sitting quietly and focusing on your breath, on your thoughts and feelings, without judgment.

But mindfulness isn’t just about meditation.

It’s about being present in whatever you’re doing – whether it’s going for a walk, cooking a meal, or even doing the dishes.

Try it out. You might be surprised at how it changes your perspective on being single this winter.

7. Set personal goals

Having a goal gives you something to look forward to, something to strive for.

It fuels your motivation and keeps you focused.

This winter, while you’re enjoying your solitude, why not set some personal goals?

It could be anything from reading a certain number of books, learning a new skill, getting fit, or even decluttering your home.

Setting and achieving personal goals can give you a sense of accomplishment and boost your self-esteem. It also gives you a sense of purpose and direction, making your alone time more productive and fulfilling.

And don’t forget: the goal doesn’t have to be big or ambitious. Even small, achievable goals can make a huge difference in how you feel about yourself.

8. Embrace change

Change is a part of life. It’s inevitable and often, it’s for the better.

Being single may be a big change from what you’re used to, especially during the winter months when everyone seems to be paired up. But instead of fearing this change, embrace it.

This winter, see your single status not as a disadvantage but as an opportunity to grow as an individual. Use this time alone to explore new avenues, to learn new things, to meet new people, and most importantly, to discover who you really are.

Change might seem scary at first, but it often leads to beautiful destinations. So don’t resist it.

Embrace the change, embrace the winter, and embrace being single. You might just find that it brings you more happiness than you ever imagined.

Finally, remember this…

As we wrap up our list, there’s one crucial thing I want you to remember: Being single is not a curse, it’s an opportunity.

It’s an opportunity for personal growth, for self-discovery, for cultivating habits that promote happiness and well-being.

The key to feeling happier alone is not about filling the void with distractions, but about cherishing the space for what it can bring: freedom, self-reliance, and a deep understanding of oneself.

Yes, there might be moments of loneliness or longing. And that’s okay. It’s a part of the journey.

But in those moments, remember this: you are whole on your own. You have the strength and the ability to create your own happiness.

So this winter, embrace your solitude. Discover its beauty. And most importantly, discover yourself. Because at the end of the day, that’s what truly matters.