Holiday parties, family gatherings, gift exchange, or even church events usually focus on the joy and celebration of everyone being together.

But what if this year is not for you? What if you are alone this Christmas?
1. Engage your senses. What surrounds you influences your emotions. Enjoy Christmas music, holiday decorations, pine needles, fresh baked goods or candles. Take a bubble bath.
2. Watch your favorite Christmas movie. I have a soft spot for old classics like It’s a Wonderful Life and A Christmas Carol.
3. Indulge yourself in some way. You are worth taking care of. Just sitting gloomily in your chair in front of the TV won't help you. Do something for yourself.
4. Stay rested. When you are mentally, physically, or spiritually tired, it is much more difficult for you to stay positive. Get a good night's sleep.
5. Give a gift without revealing yourself. Be someone's secret Santa. The lone worker, lone parent, child, neighbor, family your church has to offer - give a gift without revealing yourself.