Hope in the Holidays

For many, the holiday season can bring joy and excitement. For many, it can also bring sadness, grief, traumatic memories, or disappointment. The latter may be true for you, and that’s okay. Here are some ways you can find hope in your holiday season, no matter what it looks like this year.

First, it can be helpful to do something that you genuinely enjoy doing in the holidays. Maybe it’s reading a new book or re-reading an old favorite. Maybe it’s watching your favorite Christmas movies. Maybe it’s connecting with friends or baking cookies. Connecting with something or someone who brings you joy can stir up hope and happiness during the holidays.

Second, it can be helpful to spread kindness in your community. It may look like volunteering at an emergency family shelter or donating canned foods to a shelter. It may look like writing a kind note to a co-worker or a neighbor. There are so many opportunities in your community to give your time, talents, or finances to, especially in the holiday season.

Lastly, reflect on your year and think to the upcoming year and what you want for yourself. Make a list of things you’ve accomplished (no matter how small!) and a list of things you want to accomplish for the upcoming year. Maybe you can put “regular self-care practices” as a goal for your new year.

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