The holidays are historically a difficult time for many. There’s a lot going on: getting together with family you haven’t seen in a while, enduring long travel, the pressure of gift-giving, just to name a few. Add a global pandemic on top of it all and it can certainly feel extra overwhelming.
In fact, this year is looking different for most. Maybe you won’t be traveling due to COVID restrictions so you won’t be seeing family, or perhaps you lost your job and finances are super tight.
Getting into the season of giving
One thing that hasn’t changed this year is people looking for your time or donations. The topic of giving and the holidays go hand-in-hand. We hear so much about giving during this time of year that it’s often called “the season of giving.” The key thing to know is that giving doesn’t only benefit the person at the receiving end. Giving also brings a lot of goodness to the person doing the act.
Research shows the act of giving benefits us in the following ways: it makes us happy, has increased health benefits, promotes cooperation and social connection, evokes gratitude, and creates a ripple effect throughout our community.
When we understand all of that, it’s easy to ask ourselves why we aren’t giving. It could be a lack of time or money — or maybe just not knowing where to start. Whatever situation you may find yourself in, we wanted to put together a list of four free ways you can give back this holiday season. We hope the list below inspires you!
4 free ways to give back
Write letters
Use your voice for good. Letters of Love is an organization that collects letters for healthcare workers on the frontlines of this pandemic. You can send your message virtually on their site so it’s easy and costs nothing!
If you want to spend a little bit of money on stamps or happen to have them at your home, Letters Against Depression and The Letter Project collect actual letters to distribute. If you have pens and paper at home, this could be a fun, very low-cost activity to brighten others’ days.
Volunteer your time
This year, volunteering looks a bit different due to closures or reduced staff at places that are open. Instead, check out virtual volunteer opportunities! You’re able to make a difference safely from the comfort of your own home or any location that’s convenient for you. There are hundreds of opportunities in different areas. Check out VolunteerMatch to explore options that are a fit for you.
Offer your service for free
What talents do you have? What do you do for work? How can you offer a piece of that for free this holiday season? Maybe you’re an editor and can offer free resume writing for those impacted by unemployment due to the pandemic. Or maybe you’re a yoga teacher and can offer a free class via Zoom. Get creative!
Spread kindness
Hold the door for a stranger at the grocery store, say thank you to those delivering your mail and packages, or wave to someone on your walk around your neighborhood. It may sound simple or silly, but a little kindness does go a long way — especially this year and this time of year. You never know what someone is going through and how that little act can truly benefit them.
You don’t need money or even much free time to make a difference this holiday season. Try one or more of these free ways to give back.
If this time of year is a challenge for you, our team is here. Don’t wait to contact us at the Ventura Counseling & Wellness Center.
