Online Reporter
THE holiday season is upon us, and I am loving it!
For some, it is a time of glittering lights, family gatherings, and cherished traditions. Yet for others — especially some singles or those feeling lonely — the holidays can stir dread, anxiety, or even the temptation to settle for unhealthy relationships just to avoid being alone.
But remember: you are worthy of joy, beauty, and celebration — whether surrounded by people or enjoying your own company.
The holidays should be a season of wellness, peace, and love. And love is not limited to romance — it is God’s love, family love, friendship, and self-love. Some people get to have a holiday break from work, if you are one of them, you can turn that break into a gratifying time to unwind and reconnect with loved ones or even just yourself.
If truth be told, life itself is a gift from God. Shall we then waste it by sulking or throwing pity parties? Absolutely not! I disagree with the view that holidays are necessarily boring and there is ‘nothing to do’. I reckon where there is a will, there is always a way. Challenge yourself to rise, shine, and make every moment count.
Singles: Celebrate yourself and break the monotony
Being single during the holidays is not a curse as some have allowed themselves to accept — rather, take it as an opportunity to do what many cannot do:
I picked a few practical tips to beat holiday blues, which you can tweak to your liking:
Create your own fun — Decorate your space, cook your favourite meal, or light candles. Make it personal in was that bring you joy.
Create holiday memories — Gather fellow singles or friends for holiday brunch, setting the stage for healthy laughter and reminiscing.
Volunteer or give back — We have often given tips on the many things one can do to serve others. Rather than view the holidays with dread, pick something you can do to bring joy to others, even your community. This has potential to also remind you of your God given purpose.
Gather strength to try something new — Break monotony with a cooking class, choir practice, like Christmas carols, or a local art show- or just visiting an art gallery or museum somewhere. Step out of your comfort zone.
Flip the script — If you’ve always spent Christmas day at home, plan a picnic in the park, a road trip, or even a ‘holiday breakfast’ instead of dinner. You still have a month to plan, should this be an appealing option.
Practice wellness — Resources permitting, treat yourself to spa days, nature walks, or journaling. Your peace matters.
Create a memory project — Start a scrapbook, photo journal, or video diary of your holiday season. Document your joy. This exercise can also bring joy in a family set up where there are children on school break to occupy.
Connect with family — Call your aunt, uncle, sibling, or cousin- even parents. Rekindle bonds and discard old feuds.
Avoid comparison — We have addressed this one in the past, how social media for instance, can magnify loneliness. Focus on your blessings, not others’ highlight reels. Zvimwe hazviteedzerwi zviya. Some people have plunged themselves into distress over zviri kuitwa pa next door or on socials. Tread cautiously when seeking updates, information and entertainment on social media. Hazvizoda kusara wava in a worse state of mind than when you started your scrolling.
Embrace God’s love — Remember, Jesus is love. And His love is always there. His birth is about hope, not despair. Share that love with others. Take time daily to read His Word and gain truths that give life and hope.
The key is this: do not wait for joy to find you—get up and create it. If something works for you, keep it. If it does not, dare to change it. As they say: “Do you”. Do not follow the crowd for following’s sake. Do what bring you peace and joy.
Marrieds: Prepare and protect your peace
Couples often face holiday stress — travel plans, budgets, family expectations. Choose to stay on top of things. Preparation is key to enjoying the season together.
Plan early – Book travel, budget for gifts, and organise schedules to avoid last-minute chaos. By now you have probably already done so, and kudos to you if you are all sorted. Ndiko kugona. But if you haven’t, do not despair. Research on what is possible in the month left to Christmas. Whether you celebrate it or not, it does affect the calendar of events almost universally, with some businesses shutting down for days or weeks. Be prepared with your home supplies, for a more enjoyable season.
Communicate clearly — Discuss expectations with your spouse. Decide which traditions matter most.
Balance families — Apa pane nyaya! If visiting in-laws, be fair and loving kwese. Avoid favouritism or resentment. We have heard of some really appalling practices by some spouses who favour their own parents or family, totally disregarding their spouse’s family. Chii chakadaro nhai? If resources allow, decide as a couple on how to meaningfully cater for both sides of your families.
Practice hospitality — create a welcoming space for friends and relatives and see what joy unfolds.
Keep romance alive — Amid the ‘busyness’, carve out time for just the two of you.
Model love for children — Show them that holidays are about kindness, not just presents.
Family love: The true celebration
The holidays are not about feasting alone, nor about gifts piled under a tree. They are about love. We deceive ourselves if we say we celebrate the birth of the Saviour, yet refuse to love one another. Jesus is love. His birth calls us to reconciliation, forgiveness, and unity.
Pick up that phone. You know who you need to call. Discard old grudges already. Family feuds steal joy.
Share meals, laughter, and stories.
Remember: even singles have abundant opportunities to love others with Godly love.
Finally, whether single or married, traveling or staying home, the holidays are a chance to choose joy, peace, and love. Because at the centre of it all is this truth: Jesus is love. And love is the greatest gift we can give and receive.
I’d love to hear from you! What are your holiday hacks, traditions, or ways of keeping joy alive as we count down to Christmas? Share your comments and experiences. Together, we can make this holiday season one of love, laughter, and lasting memories.
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