By: Annemarie Ward
Does anyone else feel pressure to have a fabulous New Years’ Eve?
An extravagant Gatsby evening where you dress up in a suit and tie or a sparkly gown, with fountains of champagne and glitter — anything less and the dreaded FOMO will be lurking over your head all evening.
Don’t get me started on the obligatory New Year’s kiss you share with a loved one — or a total stranger.
But, of course, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to indulge in your most opulent Hallmark Movie fantasy.
But…
What if I told you that spending New Year’s Eve by yourself was 100% okay?
That is how I plan on spending my New Year’s this year. All alone, by choice.
I Googled for inspiration on what to do, and I was a little offended at the results. I saw headlines like “How to cope with being alone on New Year’s Eve” and “Ways to make New Year’s Eve a positive experience alone.” — as if it wasn’t one.
Sure, being alone on the holidays can be a trigger, and I am thankful that articles address those concerns.
However, the value of being by yourself isn’t recognized enough…
Here are some of my ideas on how I plan on spending my fabulous evening, solo.
1. Set the tone ~
Make your home clean and cozy for the new year!
Play a fantastic New Year’s Eve playlist and sing into your champagne bottle.
Watch your favorite New Year’s special and enjoy the fun performances from the comfort of your couch.
Make a charcuterie board — all to yourself.
Light candles and set the perfect mood lighting for a comfy (yet marvelous) evening in.
Set the environment up for what makes you happy! Add some sparkle décor to your living room or put up minimalist NYE decorations for your festive party-of-one.
Another idea is to cook yourself a fabulous meal.
Enjoy the process of cooking something you love that brings you joy, as the year comes to a close.
Also, there is nothing like a delicious homemade dinner and champagne toast, all to celebrate YOU and the year YOU just conquered.
2. Feel the part ~
I plan on buying myself some silky and sexy pajamas to lounge in while I sip on champagne.
You can also do your makeup and have a mini photoshoot in your luxury pajamas or in fabulous NYE attire.
Even if you get all dressed up, to simply stay in and take photos, it’s all about making it fun and celebratory.
You can also skip the makeup and do a little spa treatment while waiting for the ball to drop.
Do a face mask and paint your nails sparkly gold, silver, red, or whatever color makes you feel bold.
Being confident in yourself and feeling sexy and sassy, even if you’re alone, can put you in a healthy mindset to take on the new year!
3. Reflection ~
Take time to think about what the year brought you and lessons you can apply to better yourself..
Have a minute to thank God or the universe for another year around the sun. Then, use the opportunity to set realistic goals and ambitions for the fresh new year.
Here are some journal prompt ideas:
- Three trials I faced this year?
- How did I overcome the trials?
- What lessons did this year’s hardships teach me?
- Three positive takeaways from the past year?
- Three things I wanted to accomplish but didn’t?
- How can I achieve them this upcoming year?
- Three intentions I have for the New Year?
- What actions can help me live out my intentions?
- How can I hold myself accountable for these intentions?
Doing inner work can help you get into a mindset of motivation, determination, and bliss to conquer whatever may come.
And the best part? Learning how to celebrate and be happy by yourself, while ringing in a fantastic new year, is the best way to start any new journey.
Lets romanticize being alone and create a solo New Year’s Eve experience that sets the tone for self-love and success.
NYE can be an opportunity of solitude you may not get if you were in a crowded bar or a house filled with people.
Being with friends and family is still an excellent way to spend the holidays.
However, there is beauty in celebrating a holiday, typically surrounded by people — in an environment of solidarity and peace, so that you can genuinely start fresh with no one other than yourself.
Best wishes ~
