What’s Next? Finding Your Way Through Holiday Grief, Heartbreak & Heavy Seasons

The holidays have a way of putting a spotlight on everything we’ve been trying to quietly carry. The empty chairs at the table. The relationship we prayed would last. The loneliness that sneaks in when everybody else seems boo’d up, smiling in matching pajamas. And then there’s that quiet sadness of seasonal depression that shows up uninvited like it paid rent.

If you’ve ever stared at the twinkling lights and thought, “Lord… what am I supposed to do with all this?” you’re not alone. And you’re not broken. You’re human, and you’re grieving. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, the death of a season you wished would bloom, or the weight of navigating life solo… grief has many faces, especially this time of year.

But here’s the truth we often forget: grief isn’t the end of the story. It’s just a chapter. And even in the heaviness, you’re allowed to breathe, rest, and ask yourself gently… What’s next?

💔 When the Seat at the Table Is Empty

Losing someone you love changes the holidays forever. Memories hit different. Songs hit different. Silence hits different.

But here’s a gentle reminder:Honor them by honoring yourself this year. You don’t have to recreate old traditions if they hurt. You don’t have to show up everywhere if your heart says “not today.” You are allowed to rewrite the script.

Try This:

• Light a candle for your loved one.

• Share a favorite memory or cook one dish they adored.

• Let yourself feel the feelings without judgment.

Grief is love that has nowhere to land. Let it land with grace.

💕 When You’re Single & the Holidays Feel Loud

Being single during the holidays can feel like everybody on earth is boo’d up but you. But hear me clearly: your worth is not tied to a relationship, a photo op, or matching pajamas.

Love can find you at any age, any season, any chapter. You are not behind. You’re being prepared.

Try This:

• Plan something fun just for you; brunch, a solo date, or a new tradition.

• Spend time with people who pour into your spirit.

• Remind yourself: being single is not a setback. It’s a season of becoming.

  
  

🌧️ When Seasonal Depression Starts Creeping In

The shorter days, darker evenings, cold mornings, it all can take a toll on your spirit. This isn’t weakness. It’s real, and it deserves real care.

Try This:

• Get sunlight in the morning, even for 10 minutes.

• Move your body; stretch, walk, or dance around your living room.

• Journal what you’re feeling instead of letting it bottle up.

• Stay connected and don’t isolate.

Your mental health matters. You matter.

🌿 Strategies to Stay Emotionally Healthy Through the Holidays

1. Create Boundaries Without Apology

Say no when you need to. Rest when you need to. You don’t owe anybody an explanation for protecting your peace.

2. Let Yourself Receive Help

You don’t always have to be the strong one. Let someone show up for you.

3. Practice Softness

Do one gentle thing for yourself daily; tea, music, a nap, a warm bath, stepping outside for fresh air.

4. Make New Traditions

Traditions aren’t about perfection; they’re about connection. Build something that feels good to your heart right now.

5. Give Yourself Permission to Feel Joy

It’s okay to laugh. It’s okay to have a good day. Joy doesn’t erase grief; they can coexist.

6. Talk to God Honestly

You don’t need fancy words. Just your truth:“Lord, this season is heavy. Be close.”He will.

✨ So… What’s Next?

What’s next is choosing yourself.What’s next is giving your heart space to breathe.What’s next is understanding that you can be grieving and growing at the same time. What’s next is knowing you are held by God, by your community, and by the future waiting for you.

You’re not walking into this holiday season empty. You’re walking in wiser, softer, stronger, and more aware of what you need.

And sis… that’s a beautiful kind of next.