Why Winter Hits Different When You're Single + How To Survive It

As the days get shorter and the air gets colder, it’s not just the temperature that changes.

For many single women, winter can trigger feelings of loneliness, low energy, and isolation. The festive season looms, social calendars shift, and everyday routines can feel harder to maintain without someone to share it all with.

But being single in winter doesn’t have to feel heavy. In fact, with the right mindset and a few strategic shifts, this season can be a powerful time for reflection, connection, and joy. Here are 6 practical, empowering ways to thrive as a single woman this winter.

Prioritise Daylight - Your Mood Depends On It

Let’s start with the basics: your body needs light. Shorter days and longer nights can mess with your circadian rhythm, affecting your mood, sleep, and energy levels. That’s why making the most of daylight hours is key.

And you've got a few options to bring that in: Try taking a brisk walk at lunchtime, otherwise schedule some outdoor time between 12pm and 2pm. And if you can't make it outside, you can try a SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) lamp. Even 15–30 minutes of sunlight or light therapy can make a noticeable difference. And if you work from home, protect that midday walk like it's a meeting.

Create Warm, Budget-Friendly Social Rituals

You don’t need a packed social calendar or fancy nights out to feel connected. Invite a friend over for dinner. and rotate cooking duties. Or start a mini 'Come Dine With Me' with fellow single women (you can join the Single Spark broadcast group on Instagram to find your crew).

• Pick low-pressure weeknights (Tuesdays and Wednesdays work great)

• Alternate who cooks or clean up together

• Make it fun, with themed nights, comfort food, movie marathons

It's not about impressing anyone - it's about sharing space, laughter, and something warm when it’s cold outside.

Talk About the Hard Stuff (Really)

Loneliness looooooves secrecy. The more we hide it, the heavier it feels. So one of the most powerful things you can do this winter is to talk about how you’re actually feeling.

Whether it's with a friend, therapist, coach, or even via voice notes to yourself, expressing what you're going through creates relief, connection, and often, unexpected solutions.

Not sure how to start? Choose someone safe and say: "Can I share something I’ve been struggling with? I don’t need fixing, just someone to listen."  You'll be surprised how many people are craving the same honesty!

Don’t Have People to Talk To? Build Your Circle Intentionally

Making new friends as an adult can feel awkward. But connection takes effort - and time. Studies show it takes 100–150 hours to form a meaningful friendship. So:

• Join hobby-based or identity-aligned groups

• Attend events consistently

• Ask someone to grab coffee after

• Be clear about wanting connection, not just attendance

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Real friendship takes repetition. If you click with someone, invest time intentionally.

Rethink Self-Care (and no, it’s not just bubble baths)

True self-care isn’t always cute. It’s structured, sometimes boring, and always powerful. Here's a few ideas for how you can take care of yourself:

• Build a simple morning or evening routine

• Journal regularly - especially during emotionally charged moments

• Read books that nourish your mind

• Listen to podcasts that shift your perspective

  
  

Start where you are. The goal isn’t perfection... it’s consistency and self-awareness

Always Have Something to Look Forward To

The winter blues hit hardest when your calendar is empty. Give yourself something to get excited about:

• Book a trip, even a small one

• Schedule a dinner out or festive day with friends

• Sign up for an event or workshop

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Even better? Pre-book something for January or February so you have a light at the end of the winter tunnel.

Being single during the winter months can feel tough - but it can also be a beautiful opportunity to strengthen your relationship with yourself.

These strategies aren’t about "getting through" winter - they’re about making it yours.

You are a priority.

Your well-being matters.

So layer up, light that candle, plan something exciting, and remember: your single life is worth celebrating in every season.