Five Simple Ways To Give Back This Holiday Season

The holidays are in full swing! I can’t believe that Christmas is two weeks away. Where did the time go?!

With all of the hustle and bustle of the holidays, I think that it’s important for us to take a moment to reflect on what the holidays truly represent. It’s the season of giving and I don’t know about you but nothing makes me feel better than giving to others. The greatest part about it is that you don’t have to be a millionaire and you don’t have to have endless extra hours up your sleeve to give back to those that are a bit less fortunate this year. Here are just a few quick and simple tips on how you can give a bit of extra holiday cheer this season!

1. Volunteer

Volunteering is such a beautiful way to offer help this holiday season. I think there’s this misconception about volunteering that you have to have ALL the time in the world to contribute. That’s so not the case! Organizations will be thankful for any amount of time that you can give. Try finding opportunities that interest you. If you love helping other women, find a women’s shelter that may need assistance. If you adore kids, see if you can help out at a children’s hospital. The feel good possibilities are endless!

2 Donate

This is probably the simplest and one of the most effective ways to give back during the holiday season. I know that funds may be tight around the holidays, but even just giving a dollar here and there can truly make a difference. One of my favorite ways to do this is so make up a bag or a box for someone in need. Making up a bag full of goodies for a woman in need or a care package for a soldier overseas not only gives that person a bit of joy but will bring you more joy than any material object. It’s the gift that just keeps giving!

3 Use Your Cooking Skills

One of the best parts about the holidays is all of the delicious food! But not everyone has the time, funds or ability to cook during the holidays. If you’re baking up a big batch of your famous Christmas cookies, put a few in a Tupperware container to give to a coworker or friend. If you have a friend or family member going through a particularly difficult time this season, consider cooking up a comforting meal to give as a sign of your support. Trust me, this will mean the world to them and it will make you feel incredible as well!

4 Invite

Notice a new neighbor in town? Invite them to join you for your holiday festivities! There is something magical about Christmas that just brings everyone together. Even if they decline, just the act of asking will show them that you care. Coming together is much more beautiful (and more fun) than being alone so invite all that you can. The more the merrier!

5 The Gift of Time

What I’ve learned throughout my years is that sometimes, a phone call or a simple “how are you doing?” can be more meaningful than anything found under a tree. Give your friends and family the gift of your time. Call your Mom or your Grandma and just talk. If you’re lucky enough to have them in your life, celebrate it and give them your time. Time can be so useful for friends, too. Do a few “just because” calls to your closest friends. Show them that you care and let them do a lot of the talking. The gift of time and love is truly the greatest gift to be given.

I think the thought of “giving back” can sometimes be overwhelming during the holidays. We don’t know where to begin and we worry that we won’t have the time or funds to do so properly. I hope these five ideas can inspire you to give back a bit this holiday season. Giving should never be stressful. Whether big or small, give what you can this holiday season and you’ll be surprised at what you receive in return. It is truly one of life’s greatest gifts!

“We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” – Winston S. Churchill

Love and light, Carrie xo