The holiday season is a special time for many, but it can also be stressful for some people. With gift lists, parties, travel, and more, the season can feel overwhelming.
Did you know that the act of helping others and being kind (aside from giving gifts) has been shown to reduce stress? In fact, some studies reveal that when we reach out to help friends, family, or strangers, our own psychological well-being improves. Plus, if you have children, acts of kindness can teach them empathy.
VOLUNTEER
Volunteering during the holidays is easy. Whether it’s serving food at your local food bank, visiting elderly residents at a nursing home, or joining a toy drive, the opportunities are endless.
SPONSOR A FAMILY
This is a special way to give back. Many families do this annually to help those in need. If you need assistance finding a family to sponsor, visit VolunteerMatch.org to locate programs in your area.
CHECK ON A NEIGHBOR
Many of our neighbors, especially those who are elderly, may not have family around for the holidays. This is a great time to check on them. You could bake a sweet treat or have your kids write a thoughtful note. Gestures like these mean so much.
LET SOMEONE CUT IN LINE
Whether you’re in your car or in line at the grocery store, letting someone go ahead of you can make a big difference. The simple act of saying, “You can go ahead of me,” helps us all feel better about ourselves and society.
SPREAD KINDNESS
This one is easy! Start your day with a goal to be kind to three people. You can plan something specific, like sending a thoughtful text to a long-lost friend or complimenting a coworker. A smile is free and can brighten anyone’s day. We never know what people are going through, and paying attention to them with kindness could even save a life.
