As the holiday season comes around, it seems as though many people get caught up in the materialistic things about the holidays, instead of the true reason for the season. As each holiday comes around, it should be celebrated by being with people you love and thankful for the things you have already. In order to change the way that most people think of the holiday season, here is a challenge that everyone should attempt.
1. Take time out of your day to tell someone you love them.
Whether it's your mom, your dad, your sibling, a grandparent, a boyfriend, a girlfriend, an aunt, an uncle, a friend, a cousin, whoever it may be, tell them how much they mean to you. Life is short, and you never know what will happen. Tell them you love them and give them a great big hug.
2. Be kind to everyone you encounter.
Too often, people walk the streets with a frown or an angry look on their face. Greet people with a smile, and just that alone could make their day. Kind words can change someone's day from a bad one to a good one.
3. Turn off or be away from your phone for at least an hour every day.
We get too caught up in technology these days. Even though it has its benefits, it can be really distracting from our daily lives. Take an hour to turn off your phone or just be away from it, and use that time to spend it face-to-face with someone.
4. Speak positively instead of negatively.
Many people complain 24/7 about how their life is going. They have a huge test they think they're going to fail, or they talk about how bad their body looks. If we change these "I hate's" into "I love's," just think about how much better our days could go.
5. Do a good deed for someone else as often as you can.
There is always a chance to help someone. It could be holding a door for someone with their hands full, paying for the person's coffee behind you, or cleaning out your closet and donating your old clothes to someone in need. Whether it's a big or little gesture, someone out there needs your help with something.
6. Worry more about giving than receiving.
The holidays weren't made for people to be selfish, but rather selfless. Instead of making your wishlist a mile long, think of something you could do or buy for someone else. Take someone ice skating, bake something together in the kitchen, or share laughs while driving around to look at Christmas lights. It doesn't have to be about the money you spend or the gifts you get, as long as you spread Christmas cheer.
7. Be patient when shopping for presents.
The holiday season is the busiest time of the retail year. When you are shopping for presents this season, be kind and patient to the employees. They are working long, hard hours to make it possible for you to shop. It can be very chaotic, so don't be rude. Appreciate them!
8. Focus on spending time with your loved ones.
Thanksgiving and Christmas are two of the holidays that are not meant to be spent alone. It can be with family or friends, coworkers or neighbors. Regardless of who it is, spend time with them and show them you're grateful to have them in your life.
9. Say "thank you" more often.
We often get so distracted by things that we forget to thank those who help us. For every nice thing that someone does for you, thank them. This will give them a reason to keep doing those things, and hopefully you will do them too. It can start a chain reaction to continue the good things in this world.
10. Before you go to bed every night, think of at least 10 things you were thankful for that day.
We sometimes think about what we wish we had instead of what we already have. This small act can show you how fortunate you are. It can be as little as waking up that morning. Once you stop and think about what good things are in your life, it can change your mindset from negative to positive.
This challenge can brighten the holiday season even more. By doing good things instead of bad things, we can make a change in our world. Share this with those around you, and challenge yourself!
