It’s your first Christmas away from your family, and you’re feeling blue. Even though you’re happy to be away at college, it’s tough to watch all your classmates go home for the holidays while you stay put. Fortunately, a few tips can help you make it through without too much homesickness. In fact, you may be surprised by how much you enjoy an out-of-the-norm season.
Don’t Be a Stranger
You may not be with your family in person, but that doesn’t mean you can’t settle for the next best thing: video chats, phone calls, and even snail mail (yes, snail mail). Send your family a surprise package filled with small gifts, letters, and other treats.
Schedule your calls during or right after an exciting event, such as gift opening, or during a family tradition, such as caroling for the neighbors. Decide to do something special at the same time as your family members across the miles, such as decorate the tree or watch “It’s a Wonderful Life.”
Host and Be Hosted
If friends invite you to take part in their family holiday activities, take them up on their offer to help scratch that itch for family time. This is especially true if too much alone time leaves you feeling depressed and down. Alternatively, you can host a festive dinner for other people you know who are also away from family at Christmas. Planning and preparing will keep you from dwelling on what’s happening at home.
Indulge in Some R&R
If you’re one of those people who really likes (and needs) alone time, then this is the perfect opportunity to get that R&R you’ve been craving all semester. Spend an entire morning reading a book in your PJs. Stay up late binge-watching a new-to-you TV series. Exercise in a way that feels luxurious and refreshing. Knit a scarf, or cook a complicated new dish. The introvert inside of you will feel invigorated by the time New Year’s comes around.
Spread the Cheer
Fill your heart with holiday spirit by giving back. This can be as simple as baking cookies for your neighbors or wrapping gifts for someone who is pressed for time. Of course, you could also work at the local food bank or shelter. If you’re really feeling charitable, consider volunteering for the least-desirable shifts, and feel great knowing that you made it possible for other volunteers to be with their families on Christmas Day.
This year, let go of what you think Christmas should be, and embrace what it can be. If your college apartment doesn’t exactly feel warm and inviting, then CORT Furniture Rental has student packages that can provide all the furniture you need to spend the holidays in comfort and style.
