Not partying on New Year's Eve? Here’s how to own it
You do you!
Whether we like to be in denial or not, there is a subconscious awareness of the fact that holidays come with their share of commercial aspects. We are buying more, and spending more and businesses are more than happy to cash in on this. It’s also good to have dedicated days when the world lets their hair down and celebrates something—it’s uniting!
But here’s the thing. Like anything else in life, you shouldn’t feel pressurised to participate in something, just because the world deems it required. It’s not. You will not spontaneously combust if you don’t party on a holiday or festival. Point is, if you feel like going out and having the time of your life, you must do it. If you feel like staying in, binge-watching Emily in Paris, you shouldn’t feel forced to not do it.
You have complete agency over your time
When you’re younger, you see your time as a free resource; it’s costing you nothing and you have plenty of it. As you grow older, you realise that between work, social and personal life, and errands, even 24 hours seem insufficient. This is why you start getting more careful with your time. If you ask me, I end up spending most of my social battery on the closest ones. The point I am trying to make is that time is precious and it is yours. You have to make the autonomous decision about how you want to spend it, depending on what makes you happy. If you choose to go on a trek or a staycation or just be home, it’s your time and your call.
Availability doesn’t mean accessibility
The most enthusiastic people I have met in my life are those who call me their closest friend. These humans are always cheerful and chirpy and I say this with love—they’d want all my time if it was possible. Many people will be able to relate. Your loved ones would want to spend time with you, especially on holidays but it’s not necessary that their plans will seem enjoyable to you. It’s okay to be available but not accessible. You do you and don’t get dragged into parties if you don’t want to. Let your hair down…over a pillow and have a sleep marathon if you want.
There is no single definition of ‘fun’
I love my sangrias and dancing, but I want to go clubbing when I feel like it, not because the world is out there to rate your celebratory experiences based on the number of shots you consume. You may be someone who enjoys camping more than clubbing or that’s just what floats your boat right now. You can choose what you find fun, and what you’re in the mood for and you owe no explanation to anyone for it.
Leave no room for self-doubt
It’s easier said than done to go on the road less travelled, or rather the road deemed boring. Nobody wants to feel their lives are not exciting enough and the reaction you will get from people might make you have self-doubt. If you are choosing to not party on a holiday, you have to be sure of it yourself. You need to know that you’ve made the right choice for yourself. With self-doubt out of the window, there will be no obstacle between you and a long bubble bath.