Issue Date: December 12, 2004
Dumped for the holidays?
Don't stay home and mope!
It's the most wonderful time of the year ... except, of course, if your honey has just given you the ol' holiday heave-ho-ho-ho.
Holiday break-ups are especially tough. It means asking Mom to remove that extra table setting, or seeing the sympathy in everyone's eyes when you show up solo at parties. It's a season full of social obligations, but all you want to do is hide under the covers.
So here's a list for you to check over as many times as you need to between now and a possibly dateless New Year's Eve to help you cope.
DON'T
... overindulge in spiked eggnog or other seasonal spirits to lift yours. Alcohol actually is a depressant.
... be a loner. Force yourself to attend events that include good friends, who will help you feel better. BUT that doesn't mean be a martyr. It's OK
to say no to some invites, such as a mutual friend's party where your ex might show up -- with a new date.
DO
... be your own Santa. Know that gift you were hoping your sweetie would give you? Get it for yourself with the money you save by not having to buy your ex something.
... write your own ending. It's no one's business why you're no longer a couple. Answer inquiries with a carefully crafted explanation like "It's too long to get into, but trust me -- it's for the best."
... get a grip. Let yourself grieve what might've been, and then get caught up in the excitement of the new year -- and new possibilities -- to come.
Dennie Hughes' new book, "Dateworthy" (Rodale, $14.95), is in stores now.
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