“Remember that the happiest people are not those getting more, but those giving more.” ~H. Jackson Brown Jr.

This time of year it’s also easy to get wrapped up in family commitments, ordering last minute gifts, and baking frenzies all while juggling our regular daily commitments. It’s no wonder the real message of the holidays sometimes becomes convoluted. One way to combat the hustle and bustle of the season is giving back. There are many opportunities to give during the holidays. Studies have shown that giving back can actually make you a happier person! All the more reason to make it a habit throughout the year. Here are some ways to help in your community:

Pay it Forward:

We love this idea because you don’t have to spend a ton of money and you can continuously give back throughout the season, or better yet, throughout the year. Not only will you brighten someone’s mood, but you might even set forth a chain reaction of people who pay it forward to others. Here are some selfless and easy ways to pay it forward:

• Pay for someone’s coffee
• Ask for donations to charities instead of gifts
• Leave your favorite book at a cafe for someone else (don’t forget to inscribe it)
• Leave quarters at the laundromat
• Leave a positive review at a favorite establishment
• Bring flowers to your local retirement home
• Donate school supplies at a nearby school
• Leave a kind note to a stranger
• Bake cookies and take them to your local fire and police department
• Over-tip at your favorite restaurant
• Drop some coins in someone’s expired meter
• Return someone’s shopping cart after they’ve unloaded their groceries

Donate to the Local Food Bank/Pantry:

Did you know that more than 40-million Americans live in households that are food insure? That’s why it’s more important than ever to keep our food banks stocked. Food banks are always in need of nonperishable food items, such as pasta, soup, and peanut butter. Try creating a reverse advent calendar! The idea is to add an item to your box each day. After the 24 days, bring the full box to your local food pantry. This is a great idea to do as a family to teach children about giving. This could even become a new family tradition!

Don’t forget our furry friends:

Did you know you can adopt animals through the World Wildlife Federation? Pretty amazing gift, right? Are you an animal lover? If so, there are countless ways to give back this holiday season and support animals in need. Whether it’s sponsoring an animal at your local zoo, giving to an organization, donating supplies to your local shelter, or simply offering to take your elderly neighbor’s dog for a walk, the giving season is the perfect time to remember our non-human friends too!

This time of year there is no shortage of opportunities or reasons to give. You’re certain to find a reputable charity whose mission speaks to you. Create a new holiday tradition by seeking ways to help others – We promise the return on your investment will be worth it x1000.