12 Ways to Give Yourself as a Holiday Gift

Kindness Abstract by CarolsCamera

What if you gave yourself during your holiday celebration? Here's how taking leadership to carry it out, might bring extra holiday zip and happiness for others...

Discover a new talent in a family member you had not realized and praise it when you see it in action. Praise raises the level of serotonin released in the brain. All benefit as they hear your words since it brings well-being to all..

Help with holiday prep and clean-up Holidays take much work and even putting your hands to do dishes, setting the table, decorating or cleaning up gift-wrap brings more joy to all.

Surprise others with acts of kindness These do not cost a cent. Begin to look to see how you can give others a hand and step in to do it. It's the doing that counts.

Sing holiday songs together Music moves the brain waves to bring joy through the pace and rhythm of a joyful tune. Your active involvement with family and friends enhances mood for you and others. If you want to stay in tune, put the instrumental version on in the background. Who knows, you may sound professional! Take it further and go sing for an elderly neighbor!

Write a note to someone who might need it during the holiday. Perhaps sending a note someone in the hospital or a person who has faced a recent crisis will bring them a touch of caring.

Play games with children and teens Games are lots more fun with more players. Ask them for suggestions and follow through even if you are not familiar with Wii, a computer game or a new board game. It's the being a good sport that matters most. Would you agree?

Wrap and give photos from past celebrations Often these bring back happy memories and fun all these years later. Make a gift of one for each member of your family or for friends.

Listen more than talk It's so easy to tell and on top of that to give advice. By listening, we capture the heart of others.

Take on the role of servant Ask yourself "What if I helped to..." With this kind of attitude, it changes the aspect of your holiday celebration. It's a way of humility much needed in our world. Not too surprisingly, others see what you do and pitch in to help. This is the work of Mirror Neurons in action. It also models for children a thoughtful approach to life.

Laugh more Talk over funny happenings of past gatherings. These usually bring tears to the eyes with a rollicking belly laugh. If nothing else, watch a funny comedy together such as, Christmas Vacation.

Volunteer at Soup Kitchen By actively involving yourself to do something to help the less fortunate, it changes your own spirit.

Act on a promise you let go  Because of busyness we can easily let go of promises. Recall one and offer to follow through this holiday season.