With the holiday season in full swing, many of us are scrambling around trying to figure out what plans to make. COVID-19 is still very much a threat, and numerous people across the country (and the world!) are choosing to stay home or have very small gatherings to celebrate the holiday season. This year’s festivities feel so gloomy, that many of us are findings ways of surviving the holidays without getting sad about it.

There’s no denying that this Christmas and New Year will look very different… but don’t let that give you the holiday blues!

Whether you’re staying at home with your roommates or you’re choosing a select few people to spend Christmas with, here are a few tips to help you survive (and enjoy!) the holiday season during the year of COVID-19!

1. Surviving the holidays is easier if you have a plan!

Make sure to let your parents know what your COVID-19 holiday plans are! If you normally have a huge family get together over the holidays, you’ll definitely need to discuss safety precautions this year. Every family is different, so if you decide that it’s best for everyone to stay at home for the holidays, be sure that everyone is clear on that decision. Make sure you listen to all of your family members’ thoughts and concerns about holiday gatherings.

Depending on your circumstances, you might have to have some awkward – but essential – conversations with your family. If you’re nervous to tell your family that you won’t be home for Christmas, always have a game plan before you speak to them. Write down everything you want to say and make sure you cover all your bases!

Take a deep breath and remember that almost every young person is having the same conversation this holiday season with their family too.

2. Staying home for the holidays? Make it fun!

If you decide not to see family over Christmas and stay home instead because of COVID-19, be sure to make it fun! Moreover, if you have roomis – plan special holiday activities for the week leading up to Christmas and on Christmas day. Create new traditions with your roommates to get into the holiday spirit!

Beat the holiday blues by watching your favorite holiday movies, bake cookies, gingerbread house, and sing along to the Christmas carols you love. Don’t forget to buy gifts for your roommates and put them under the tree! TBH, surviving the holidays is easier when you have someone by your side.

Related : Christmas Gift Ideas For Shopping Small!

3. Have a Zoom call with family on Christmas Day

If you decide not to be with family this year for safety reasons, be sure to set up a time to call your relatives on Christmas day. Communicate with everyone in your family and set up a time for a group holiday Zoom call.

We know that seeing your parents and loved ones on a screen isn’t the same as seeing them in person. However, it will make your day feel a lot more like Christmas when you do. Try setting up a time for all your family members to open presents together over Zoom. This way, you can enjoy some special moments together.

4. Lift your spirits by doing activities you enjoy

This year has been stressful to say the least. Not being able to see loved ones around the Christmas period isn’t ideal. But don’t let it completely dull your sparkle. Make sure to practice self-care that’s the best way to surviving the holidays without getting sad or stressed. Get into the holiday spirit by doing little things each day that you enjoy.

Watch a feel-good movie, catch up with an old friend, go on a hike, make your favorite dinner dish. Honestly, the possibilities are endless and the little things really do count!

This year, no matter what you do, do something each day that brings you joy. It really will make the holiday season seem a lot brighter!

D’you know what else Roomi does outside of helping its readers with a guide to surviving the holidays during Covid-19? With our ever-increasing lists of rooms and roommates across the world, we help you find your perfect match! Download the app here and hop on the easiest ride home, ever