At first glance, you might think being single at sucks. But actually, when you put the one less present aside, it's AMAZING. Why? Allow us to explain:
1. It's cheaper
And we don't just mean the presents. Think about the commutes/Uber rides, outfits, meals, and niceties that come with having a boyfriend—and then think about all the money left in your bank account because you're single. YAS.
2. It's one less present to buy
But having said that, the present definitely does come into it. There's a lot of pressure that comes with trying to find a thoughtful/useful/meaningful/inexpensive present for an S/O, which takes a hell of a lot of pressure off if you don't even have to think about it.
3. You don't have to share
Because let's be honest—one less person around means more good food for you.
4. There are no family politics
Rather than worrying about whether your family will mind if you spent the holidays with his, if you can get away with giving his brother and sister a joint present, or if they'll notice you're wearing the same dress from your dinner last month, you can slob around in your pajamas with your family all day. The dream.
5. You don't have to shave your legs
Now, we're not saying you have to shave them when you're in a relationship or vice versa, but it's kind of nice knowing your waist down will be hidden in leggings for the next four weeks, right?
6. You get to do exactly what you want to do
Rather than having someone else to consider when it comes to which restaurant to go to or what festive films you watch, you can do exactly what you want, when you want. Aka, eating a whole box of chocolates and watching Love Actually three times in a row and not feeling even remotely guilty.
7. You can avoid any unwanted social situations
Yes, we all love a Christmas drink, and yes, the odd party or two can be fun, but who wants to be dragged around to social events they don't really want to be at when your bed and Netflix are calling? NOBODY, that's who.
8. You don't have to pretend to like his presents
Yes, yes, it isn't always a case of "pretending" but sometimes, you probably don't like the things you get given—and by not receiving the gift in the first place, it's one less awkward fake smile you have to give.
9. You don't have to remotely consider festive lingerie
Now, we're not saying everybody in a relationship has to invest in Rudolf nipple tassels or a furry red and white thong, but at least you can avoid even a jokey suggestion of nylon baubles going any where near your boobs. A small win.
10. You can slob around
Yes, people say you can do this with a boyfriend, but we're talking really slobbing around. The same pambahay for three days running, not showering, leaving chocolate to fester around your mouth—y'know, super slobby.
11. You can avoid any awkward first impressions
Meeting the parents can be a bit awkward any time of year, but when you've got a million other things to think about and your own extended family to consider, it can be an extra amount of effort at Christmas. Plus, who wants to look respectable and be restrained when it comes to stealing the last piece of lechon, anyway?
12. You don't have to stress about whether or not to buy their family presents
As anyone with a S/O will tell you, THE STRUGGLE IS REAL.
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This article originally appeared on Cosmopolitan.co.uk. Minor edits have been made by the Cosmo.ph editors.
