Five Ways to Make a Mid-Season Holiday Change

senior couple cuddled up, smiling, and sitting by a Christmas tree

Start a holiday journal. Every evening, write down three things you noticed that day, things that connected you with the meanings of the holidays.

Meet or talk with someone new. Do you know your neighbors? Talking to someone new can be daunting, but remember start with a smile. Don’t know where to begin? Ask them about their holidays, family, or pets.

Take time to breathe and relax. Don’t stress over what you have not yet accomplished. Each day of the month, just take a few moments to recharge and take some deep breaths.

Simplify wrapping gifts. Use paper that makes you feel good, and whatever level of wrapping elegance you usually achieve, and cut back one level. Feeling artistic? Decorate a paper bag or use the Sunday comics as wrapping.

Do something for somebody you don’t know. Give a gift certificate anonymously. Donate to a local food pantry. Buy toys or clothes for the kids from a local holiday tree. Just give something tangible to somebody you don’t know. And know that the world is a little better today because of you.