by Dale Dolmo

Created on: November 10, 2010   Last Updated: May 08, 2012

How To Survive Christmas Without That Special Someone

For the majority of people, Christmas means being with those you love most. Sometimes, however, the holiday season finds you separated from your "special someone." Whether your separation is a temporary one due to job or family obligations, or a permanent loss caused by divorce or death, keeping your Christmas spirit can be a battle. You can make a conscious choice to make your holidays merry, however, and hang in there for a happier new year.

Your Special Someone is Far Away
Maybe your spouse is in the military and stationed overseas. Maybe your boyfriend or girlfriend lives in another part of the country (or another country altogether), and you can't afford to visit one another this year. For whatever reason, your hearts are together, but you're physically apart for the holidays.

Thankfully, technology makes it easier for most people to share special moments across the miles, including Christmas festivities. If you both have webcams, you can open presents "live" online together. At the very least, you can email one another holiday updates, and share photos on sites like Flickr and SeeHere.

Also, don’t underestimate the importance of simply hearing your sweetheart's voice on Christmas morning. A holiday phone call, by cell or Skype, can't replace being together, but it can help bridge the distance a bit.

Don't overlook the practical concerns of a long-distance Christmas; if you're exchanging gifts, allow plenty of time to get your packages prepared and shipped. Being apart on Christmas is stressful enough; why add the extra drama of worrying that your loved one's gifts won't arrive in time?

Your Special Someone Has Left You
Sometimes, your loved one is separated from you not by circumstances, but by choice. How do you cope with celebrating the first Christmas after your spouse or significant other has divorced or dumped you? The old cliche to "keep busy" while you're sad sounds pretty hollow when you're heart is broken. When you think of making yourself go through the motions of Christmas - shopping, visiting friends and family, decorating - you may feel that it's pointless. You may think there is no way it can help you. Do it anyway. Go ahead and tell yourself what a stupid waste of time it is, but do it.

Pass the time window-shopping. Really debate whether you want to hang green balls or red ones on the tree this year. Accept invitations instead of hiding away and moping. You may not feel "jolly,"

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