Too many people deal with depression during the holidays, which is why we should pick our battles wisely. Instead of getting in a fist fight or cursing at the guy who “stole your parking spot”, do something nice for someone else.

Here’s 12 acts of kindness that you can do this holiday season:

1. Provide a compliment

Do you like that lady’s dress? How about that guy’s beard? Too personal? Leave a Post It note on the mirror of a public restroom.

2. Volunteer

Find a local soup kitchen or nursing home. Want something more long term? Check out Crisis Text Line.

3. Surprise someone with a meal

This could be as easy as paying for someone’s meal behind you at the drive-thru. Want to step it up a notch? Buy a meal for a homeless person.

4. Visit a friend you don’t see often

Sometimes we forget how special friendships really are. So maybe it’s a phone call, a quick visit, or a lunch date out to catch up; it doesn’t have to be something elaborate. Many times, being there is enough.

5. Bake cookies for people in helping professions

Mail carriers, police officers, firefighters, garbage men, EMTs, EMS, nurses, veterinary assistants. They work hard every day to make sure us and our loved ones are safe. And who doesn’t like cookies?!

6. Donate food to a food pantry

You know all those cans of beans you’ve had sitting in your pantry for months? Are you really going to eat them? No, probably not. Don’t have a stocked pantry? Watch for when the supermarket has sales!

7. Smile at a stranger

Easy peasy lemon squeezy.

8. Spend time at an animal shelter

Everyone loves animals. Go to a shelter and pet some furbabies, help by feeding them, or bring some canned food and blankets!

9. Visit a homeless shelter

Homeless shelters always need help, and having a conversation with someone who is currently homeless can even change your life. This is another opportunity to bring blankets and clothes.

10. Allow yourself to be a good influence to someone younger than you

Bring your sibling, cousin, nephew or niece out for the day. Bring them to the skate park, the mall or the library. Join Big Brother Big Sister to be a huge influence in a young person’s life by mentoring and supporting them through their young adult journey.

11. Support our American troops

Whether it be displaying an American flag outside your home or deciding to make a huge impact in their lives by visiting hospitals or donating clothes, your support is needed. These brave men and women devote many years, if not their entire lives, to protecting all of us, our country and our freedom.

12. Tell those important to you why you appreciate them

Some people are better voicing what they are appreciative of vocally, and some are better with writing. However you can put the words together to thank the people that mean the most to you is what matters.

We should pay it forward by making someone’s life a little brighter, not only during the holiday season, but all year round.