Spending your time with your loved ones — especially during special occasions like Christmas — is a privilege that many people take for granted. But, if you’re one of those who will be spending the holidays away from home, we understand that it can be challenging to cope. In this article, we’ve listed down eight tips (including buying and gifting personalized family Christmas ornaments) in hopes of helping you overcome those holiday homesick blues.

Make the most of technology. At a time when many people across the world live away from home, technology can be considered as one of the greatest gifts to ever exist. Take the time to call or message your family. A simple update, a greeting, and a few minutes of a call can already convey love.

Surprise your loved ones with personalized gifts. Customized gifts can speak volumes of emotion. Even if you’re away from home, sending them personalized family Christmas ornaments can help ease feelings of loneliness and longing. Putting in some extra effort is proof of how much you care for your loved ones.

Deep clean your home. While holidays are generally jovial, those who are spending it away from their loved ones can be overcome with bouts of homesickness all of a sudden. When this happens, it helps to busy yourself with productive things in your abode. Consider decluttering your room and deep-cleaning your home as a way to while away any idle time.

Consider doing extra work. Once you’re done cleaning your space, and you still have time to spare, why not turn that into extra income instead? Ask your employer if you can do extra shifts at work. Another way to keep yourself busy is by pursuing long-forgotten hobbies. Why not try writing poetry, journaling your feelings, or hand-crafting the very decors or personalized family Christmas ornaments you’ll use for the holidays.

Connect with friends who are in the same situation. So, you’re alone at your own apartment during the Christmas season. However, this situation is not unique to you. Someone within your circle could be in the same boat. If you have friends like that, connect and share your sentiments and experience with them.

Check out holiday activities in your area. If you’re new to the neighborhood where you’re staying, use your time to explore the town. Try local holiday customs while following the recommended health and safety protocols. Then, take photos and send those awesome snaps with your loved ones over your group chat.

Go on a road trip. Going on a road adventure during the holidays is a one-of-a-kind experience. Through it, you can take some stress out of your system — and, in the process, create wonderful memories that you can talk about with your family.

Carry on your family’s holiday traditions. Even when you’re miles apart from your loved ones, you can celebrate the holidays with them. Prepare hearty holiday meals that your family loves. Or watch a movie that they’re also watching back at home. If it’s your family’s tradition to do volunteering during Christmas, inquire about some philanthropic organizations in your area and do charity work there.

Joyce Laroche