Let’s face it—this year hasn’t exactly embodied the word ‘positivity.’ But despite all of the bad associated with 2020, there has still been a healthy amount of good that came from this unprecedented year. Above all, 2020 showed us how to be compassionate and stick together.
While there may only be a few days left, there’s still time to put forth your best effort in 2020. Close out the year with one of these five acts to end on a high note. Or, come up with your own good deeds to spread the love this holiday season.
1. Build a Care Package
There are so many people in need this holiday season, and the pandemic has taken a toll on many. There are countless community members that are now unable to afford essential items due to the pandemic. That’s why it’s a vital season to do more good. Consider putting together a care package for a neighbor, family member or somebody you know that may be struggling.
Another great option to consider is handing out warm blankets and bags of essential items to the homeless community. Put together some essentials, like toothbrushes, toothpaste and deodorant. Keep them in your car for the next time you see somebody in need to that you can do something helpful in that moment.
2. Pay It Forward
Next time you’re grabbing a coffee or in a fast food line, consider paying for the person behind you. While you may need to work up the courage to perform a nice act for a total stranger, this is an option that lets you go virtually unnoticed. You’ll simply have the satisfaction of knowing you helped put a smile on a stranger’s face. They’ll be left with the thought that a simple act of kindness can completely make somebody’s day. Who knows, they may be ready to also pay it forward, and your small act could cause a chain reaction of kindness.
3. Volunteer
‘Tis the season for giving back. Volunteering for a local nonprofit organization is sure to put a smile on your face—and the faces of others that you’re helping! You could also use this time to become better acquainted with an unfamiliar organization to see if you’d like to donate more of your time in the coming year. If you’re unsure about volunteering during the pandemic, consider reaching out to ask about virtual volunteering options. Many organizations have also needed to shift their thinking, and have since come up with ways to virtually get involved.
4. Donate
Year-end giving is a pivotal time for many organizations, and this year has been more financially strapping than most. If you’re able, consider giving to a cause that you hold near to your heart. Food banks are especially needed this year, but many causes are experiencing hardships as a result of the pandemic. Every amount, no matter how big or small, is a step toward a nonprofit reaching their goals.
5. Commit to Doing Good in 2021
If you’re all out of days in the calendar year and booked up with family time until the New Year, there’s still time to start off 2021 on a positive note. Make a commitment to do good deeds in the new year. If you’re worried about the time commitment, don’t overcommit to start. Make a goal to something like one small act of kindness a week, or even a month. Remember that any positive actions you can put out into the world can create an equal and opposite reaction.
How are you going to make 2021 a positive year? Consider starting small, or reinforcing the good habits you picked up from 2020. The more you do something, the easier it will become in the future. It’s time to kick off January with goodness in your heart, and keep spreading it all year round. Wishing you a happy and safe holiday season.
