If you're like me, you probably have an incredibly hard time thinking of anything when someone asks what you want for Christmas. I consider myself pretty lucky, and already have a ton of things that make me happy, and it can be a stretch for me to come up with new things I want for myself. This month, as I was facing the yearly struggle of trying to come up with things I want, I was struck with how strange it was that I was forcing myself to come up with things that I didn't really need, just so someone could put it under a tree for me. It dawned on me that I should be asking for things for others, who really need it, instead of myself. So, if you're like me and you would like to create some new Christmas traditions that actually give back to people, here are some ideas to give more this holiday season.

1. If you don't need anything or you can't think of anything you want for Christmas, ask for your friends and family to make a small (or large, depending on what they can leave) donation to your favorite charity in your name. Just think of how much money could be sent to help out a charity if everyone gave the same amount to them as they would have spent on you. Even $10 makes a difference.

2. If you're like me and have a bad habit of spending way too much money on gifts, this option can help. Instead of spending an insane amount of money on gifts for your friends and family, set a price and split it in half, so that for every gift you buy for a friend, you also buy and donate one to a family in need. This way everyone wins- your friends and family still get a present, you get to pick out double the presents for people, and you can make a family's Christmas.

3 In my town, there are a lot of really fun Christmas events like light shows and parties, but they can cost a lot to get into. Instead of spending money on holiday-themed events, get a group of friends and go volunteer together. This is a huge plus if you're a student because a lot of volunteer opportunities can help relieve stress (like playing with the dogs and cats at the local animal shelter) in this super busy finals week.

4. If you're stuck with way too much stuff to clear out of your place either to make room before Christmas, or even afterwards, donate it! There are a lot of things that we all take for granted that are just sitting around our houses, and chances are there is someone out there who would love it. So post it for free online, or donate it to Goodwill.

I hope this list helps you make a difference this Christmas!