Christmas is a depressing time of year for someone who isn’t in a relationship. Everywhere I look, I’m hit with another reminder that I don’t have a boyfriend. Stores are full of girls shopping for their boyfriends Christmas present. My Instagram feed is bombarded with videos of couples ice skating and making gingerbread houses together. And living in a household where there is always a Hallmark movie playing doesn’t help either.

I am sure there are many others who feel this way. It’s in our human nature to crave companionship. But, just because you’re not dating someone doesn’t mean you can’t have a magical Christmas. So, for all my single baddies: here’s how to navigate (and enjoy) being single this holiday season.

Live in the Moment

Don’t let being single stop you from living in the moment and doing the things you love. I often find myself linking certain activities with having a boyfriend, especially during the holidays. I wish I had a boyfriend, so we could go ice skating. I wish I had a boyfriend, so we could go see the Christmas lights. And although these activities could be fun to do with a romantic partner, they can just as easily be done solo or with friends and family. Make Christmas cookies. Watch your favorite holiday movies. Have a snowball fight. You don’t have to be in a relationship to enjoy life.

Connect with Others

Whether you’re dating someone or not, it’s important to continue strengthening your non-romantic relationships. And Christmastime is the perfect time to do this! Make a new friend at school. Write your favorite cousin a letter. Reconnect with someone from your past. Spend time with family. Tell your friends why you’re grateful for them. There are countless ways to show your love and appreciation for others. When you surround yourself with people who love you and focus on building those lasting relationships, the loneliness that comes with being single doesn’t feel as heavy or prominent.

Focus on Yourself

This is the last thing a single person wants to be told, but in reality, it is important to do whether you’re in a relationship or not. It allows for the chance to reflect, and give yourself the love and care you need. Being in a relationship requires lots of time and energy. You might be constantly thinking about the needs of your partner, which doesn’t leave much room for your needs.

Fortunately, being single usually comes with more flexibility and time and freedom. Although it is great to do stuff for others, it’s okay to be a little selfish and use this time to figure out what you can do for yourself. Pause and analyze your life. What can you improve on? Do you like the direction your life is headed? What do I really need right now? How can I feel more fulfilled? If you’re willing to give yourself the care and attention and love you deserve, I can guarantee that you will feel refreshed and better than ever.

Don’t let being single ruin Christmas. This is just one small point in the grand scheme of things. Enjoy where you are in life. Enjoy who you’re with. Enjoy what you have. There is so much to be grateful for. And who knows? Maybe being single could be the best thing that’s ever happened to you.