From Holiday to Every Day

There are any number of special reasons why the holidays resonate so strongly with so many people:

• Meaningful and festive time with family and friends
• Religious and ethnic traditions
• Special meals and pastimes
• A chance to give thanks and volunteer in the community 

This year, why not identify a handful of the things you love most about the holidays and pledge to include more of those kinds of activities in your everyday life.

Reflection

• Set a personal or family goal for the month
• Set some time aside each week to sit quietly and recharge
• Take time before a meal to share as a family what you're thankful for

Quality time together

• Spend time with a friend or family member doing an activity they enjoy
• Leave notes for family members telling them what you appreciate about them
• Plan a regular walk, bike ride, hike or game

Religious and spiritual practices

• Attend an additional or special service
• Devote a prayer, service or meditation to someone in need
• Schedule time to read an uplifting story or sacred spiritual text

Special meals or gatherings

• Commemorate a unique family event
  (in addition to the usual birthdays and anniversaries)
• Designate a night to exchange small gifts or cards
• Organize a simple “progressive” dinner or dessert party in your neighborhoodConnecting and volunteering

Connecting and volunteering

• Identify one volunteer activity per season for family or friends
• Make a point to write more notes or call family members
• Practice “random acts of kindness” in the course of your day