The lights glisten, songs of holiday cheer fill the air and couples everywhere kiss at the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve. There are constant depictions of family traditions and couples in love during this special time of year.

For many singles, the holidays aren’t just a time for parties and yummy food. Often times, ringing in the new year is a reminder of times that did not work out, a time when people reflect negatively upon their lives and thinking about things they don’t have in life — like someone special to share the season with.

What many people don’t realize is that the holiday season is actually an AMAZING opportunity to meet someone new. There are more parties, dinners, and events during the holidays than any other time of the year, so take advantage! Instead of looking at the upcoming winter months as a period of doom and gloom to be endured, think about them as one big exciting opportunity to meet someone great.

In order to meet that special someone, you’ll want to prepare in advance to make the most out of the next few months. Here are some tips to get you started:

 

#1 Prepare the Perfect Holiday Wardrobe

Make sure you pay attention to your wardrobe. Now is a time to get some new outfits you will feel and look amazing in. You want to walk into a room and make head turns with your confident image. Ladies, make sure you prepare to have a comfortable, chic, and super flattering little black dress that you can grab at a moment’s notice.

You can dress it up for a cocktail party with sparkly earrings, holiday shoes, and a textured clutch, or you can dress it down for a casual dinner with chic boots and a leather jacket.

Men, make sure you wear clothes that fit your body and that gives you style. Women love men who look put together and sharp. Think about a nice button down shirt with a pair of dark wash fitted jeans. Pair it with some killer leather boots and a watch to give it flare. Believe me, women notice these things! Prepare your outfit ideas for different occasions now so you can avoid last minute scrambling when an unexpected invitation comes your way.

 

#2 Say “Yes” to Every Invitation

While you never know when the right person will walk into your life, one thing is for sure: You’re not going to meet anyone if you’re sitting at home, drinking wine, and lamenting about how lonely you are!

This holiday season, accept every invitation you receive — even if it’s not something you’d normally be into, like a dinner party with an acquaintance you don’t know very well. After all, you never know who else may be in attendance. Concentrate on festivities that will be fun for you and mingle with interesting people.

 

#3 Get Outside Your Comfort Zone in Social Situations

If you usually spend parties talking only to the people you know really well, push yourself to get outside of your comfort zone. Before you even go to a party, think about where you’ll be most comfortable, and position yourself there.

Standing by the bar or by the food are both great places to run into people, as opposed to the corner by the fireplace. Once you’re in position, smile. Be open. Uncross those arms! Look for opportunities to connect with the other people at the party.

 

It’s natural to feel the absence of someone in your life and a partnership you so desire. But if you think of this time as we head into the new year as a time of renewal and rebooting your love life, you can create new celebrations, rejoice in the blessings you have and open yourself to possibilities to come… Happy New Year!

 

 

 

This article originally published on Digital Romance.