Do you face the holiday season without a romantic relationship in your life? Holidays mean gift giving and if you are single, this can have its own special impact when you are alone. It might feel like you have everyone to buy presents for but there is no one special who is going to be paying loving attention to you. Perhaps it is time to map out a strategy that takes good care of you and keeps your spirits up.

First, get out your list making tools and write down all the people you want to send cards to, get a gift for, spend some time with, or call. Following that, to insure a rich and comforting holiday season, try the following:

*Put yourself at the top of your list.

Being single, it is highly likely that no one is going to take care of you through these upcoming holidays but you. Holiday love starts with loving yourself. The better you feel, the more attractive you are and the more you have to give to others. It also becomes more possible to attract someone when you are in a positive mood.

This is a good time to get something special for you. Think about it. If you had a romantic partner, you would be getting him or her a present. If you are single and not dating anyone in particular, spend that time, energy, and money on yourself. That gift might be something you have noticed and wanted but didn't buy for one reason or another. If there is something you want, and it won't put you in debt, now is the time to get it. Wait for the holiday moment to open it or use it or bring it out. Put a card on it that says, "Happy Holidays...and you deserve it!"

*Give meaningful gifts to others.

There are other gifts that you can give yourself that bring an enormous return. That is the gift of giving to others who are suffering from poverty, illness, catastrophe, or age-related problems. Call your local homeless shelter, nuring home, crisis center, or hospital, and ask what you can do. If you volunteer your services, you will definitely be smiling inside all year when you think of the people you helped. Go see the facility where you will be working before the holidays so you know the staff, the needs, and the drill that is expected of you.

* Take time to receive the messages and thoughtfulness that does come your way at this time of year.

This is the time of year when people are often more generous of spirit. When people take the time to acknowledge you or wish you a happy holiday, let that message in. We are so busy, we often let it bounce off of us without absorbing it. When you receive your holiday cards, take time to read them through. Sit still long enough to feel the words and greetings. Now, more than ever, we need to stop and let all the good intentions and sentiments that accompany this time of year into our consciousness.

Holidays can be a perfect time to be single: to take better care of yourself, meet new people, and share new experiences. Who knows? You might even meet someone you want to know better in the New Year.

Visit http://www.tonjaweimer.com for more tips and skills on singles, relationships, and dating. You can also subscribe to our F'ree Savvy Dating Newsletter from master certified singles coach, life coach, and syndicated columnist, Tonja Weimer.