Embracing Thanksgiving When You Don't Have Family

Thanksgiving is when we traditionally gather with family to share a meal, express gratitude, and enjoy each other's company. However, not everyone has family to spend the holiday with. Whether you're far from home, estranged from toxic relatives, or have lost your loved ones, decided to forgo the pity-invitation, or maybe you just want to be by yourself, Thanksgiving can feel lonely and challenging. But it doesn't have to be. Here are some ways to handle Thanksgiving when you don't have family.

1. Create Your Own Tradition:

Who says Thanksgiving has to be about family? The holiday is about gratitude, and many ways to celebrate don't involve a traditional family gathering. Consider creating your own tradition. Maybe you cook a special meal for yourself, or spend the day doing something you love. You could also volunteer your time to a cause you care about, which can be a rewarding way to spend the holiday. Lastly, you can grab your luxury Flights In Stilettos beach towel, and head to an exotic tropical destination!

2. Gather with Friends:

Just because you don't have family around doesn't mean you have to spend Thanksgiving alone. Friends are the family we choose, and a "Friendsgiving" can be just as meaningful and fun as a traditional family gathering. Invite your friends for a potluck dinner, or organize a fun outing. If your friends are far from their families, they'll likely appreciate the invitation.

3. Connect Virtually:

Thanks to technology, we can connect with people all over the world with just a few clicks. If you have loved ones who live far away, consider organizing a virtual Thanksgiving. You can share a meal over video chat, play online games together, or simply catch up and share what you're grateful for.

4. Practice Self-Care:

If you're feeling down about spending Thanksgiving without family, taking care of yourself is essential. This might mean taking a long walk, spending the day reading a good book, or treating yourself to a spa day. Remember, it's okay to feel uneasy, and it's okay to take time for yourself.

5. Explore Your Community:

Many communities host public Thanksgiving events, such as communal meals, parades, or charity runs. These can be a great way to feel connected to others and celebrate the holiday in a festive atmosphere. Check your local community calendar or social media groups to see what's happening in your area.

6. Give Back:

One of the best ways to combat loneliness is to help others. Many charities and organizations need volunteers on Thanksgiving. Whether it's serving meals at a homeless shelter, visiting seniors in a nursing home, or walking dogs at an animal shelter, giving back can provide a sense of purpose and connection.

7. Embrace Solitude:

If you're comfortable being alone, Thanksgiving can be a great opportunity to enjoy some solitude. You can use the day to reflect on what you're grateful for, set goals for the future, or relax and recharge.

Remember, there's no right or wrong way to celebrate Thanksgiving. The holiday is about gratitude; you can express that in whatever feels right to you. Whether you spend the day with friends, volunteer your time, or enjoy solitude, the most important thing is to do what makes you happy. Live girl live. Don't let any grass grow under your feet, and don't wait around for anyone!

Heal Girl. Whole Girl. Healthy Girl.

Kinyatta E. Gray founded The Heart of Miss Bee, Inc., a non-profit organization that helps women understand grief and how to cope with grief through tools such as journaling. Gray is also a certified life coach and the founder of InHer Bliss Life Coaching, which offers grief support and coaching for women.