If you are feeling blah because of this isolating holiday season, here are a few tips to inject more happiness into your everyday life.

  • Smile more – studies show the act of smiling makes you happier
  • Sleep more
  • Workout or meditate – get moving!
  • Listen to music – I’ve got my holiday playlist on repeat
  • Give thoughtful presents to those you love
  • Decorate your home for the holidays since you’re spending so much time there
  • Plan a virtual holiday gathering. I did an ugly sweater party and it was a blast.
  • Give out compliments
  • Perform daily acts of kindness
  • Help those in your community through a holiday coat drive or gift collection for kids in need
  • Take joy in other people’s successes (and promote them)
  • Spend time with family and friends
  • Get rid of extra clutter
  • Write out goals for next year – not resolutions but achievable goals
  • Make a gratitude list
  • Call people with whom you’ve lost touch
  • Look through old photos – make albums on your phone to quickly sort them. Print out your favorites.
  • Do things that make you happy and say no to things that don’t
  • Spend time with pets. You can borrow mine if you want!
  • Bake new holiday recipes and drop off your culinary creations to your neighbors
  • Organize a recipe exchange for favorite holiday dishes, drinks or desserts and hold a contest with friends
Hug a pet!

I’d love to hear what you’re doing to keep your spirits high right now.