This time of year can be a very stressful and hard time. College students are going through finals week, transitioning into being back home for the break, and for some, it means graduating and starting to figure out their lives. With Christmas and other holidays, it can be a very hard time for people who are grieving the absence of a friend or family member. There are many people who are trying to find ways to afford Christmas gifts for their family. There are many things that could be going on in the lives of others around you. Sometimes, even the simplest, "hello," could change someone's day.

While many people are able to agree and sing along with "It's the most wonderful time of the year," unfortunately, there are others that are not able to. While you may not be able to everyone, you are no completely helpless in brightening the moods of those around you. In the movie Elf, Buddy the Elf says, "the best way to spread Christmas cheer, is singing loud for all to hear." Now, singing may not be your strongest skill, but there are plenty of other things you can do to spread the Christmas cheer in your own unique way.

While some of these ideas may seem small, you never know how they may impact the lives of the people you share it with. If the weather is bad where you are, shovel or plow their driveway or sidewalk. It might be a little more labor for you, but when they look out to an already cleared driveway and are able to not worry about it, it will be worth it. If you have friends or family that live away and you will not be able to see them, call them. I know not many people actually use their phones for calls anymore, but a call or video chat lets them know that you were thinking about them. This takes no extra time, effort, or money to do. Plus, you both will benefit from the conversation with each other. If you stop for coffee or for something to eat, offer to pay for the person behind you. I know for a while this was a big part of 'paying it forward,' but it is something that can be done to brighten someone else's day. It can be as simple as holding a door for someone and smiling.

Not everything you do has to be put on as an extravagant show. Sometimes it is the small things that can make the biggest impacts on others. Just by showing love and kindness to others during times when it might not be the easiest for them, you can change the way someone's day is going. You could be the person that makes a difference in their life. During this Christmas season, find the best way for you to spread your Christmas cheer.