She Strengthens

Embracing the Freedom of a Solo Thanksgiving

As we transition into adulthood, we’re faced with the daunting task of creating our own holiday traditions. For many, Thanksgiving is a particularly challenging holiday to navigate, especially for introverts. I know this all too well, having spent my early years in New York City, struggling to balance the desire to celebrate with the financial burden of traveling home.

Breaking Free from Expectations

When I finally decided to stay in the city for Thanksgiving, I was determined to create a celebration that worked for me. Without family nearby, I had to get creative. My retail job, combined with my full-time office job, left me exhausted, and I didn’t want to waste my rare holiday off. I experimented with different approaches, trying to find a balance between traditional experiences and personal comfort.

Designing Your Ideal Celebration

If you’re like me, you might prefer a low-key Thanksgiving. Here are some tips to help you enjoy a small-scale celebration:

Intimate Gatherings

Keep your guest list small and intimate. Surround yourself with people who make you feel comfortable and valued. Whether it’s a roommate, significant other, or best friend, prioritize quality over quantity.

Right-Sizing Your Menu

Scale down your food quantities to avoid unnecessary stress. A turkey breast can be a perfect alternative to a whole bird, and you can always edit down your sides to focus on your favorites.

Cutting Corners with Confidence

Give yourself permission to take shortcuts. Use pre-cut vegetables, box mixes, or store-bought cranberry sauce if it makes your life easier. Remember, this is your celebration, not a cooking competition.

Sharing the Load

If you do have guests, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Delegate tasks, like bringing sides or desserts, to make your day more manageable.

The Ultimate Freedom: Not Cooking at All

If cooking isn’t your thing, consider ordering food or having it catered. There’s no one “right” way to celebrate Thanksgiving, so prioritize your comfort and happiness above all else.

By embracing these tips, you can create a Thanksgiving celebration that truly reflects your needs and desires. And who knows, you might just find yourself feeling more grateful than ever before.