Giving is a common theme this time of year as we complete our holiday shopping and express well wishes to family and friends.

The Carolinas have some wonderful gift ideas including different wines from our regions; a piece of furniture from one of our manufacturers; or even a gift basket from Texas Pete’s (which is manufactured right here in Winston-Salem). This is truly a time when the thought matters the most, and most gift recipients will be delighted when you’ve thought of them with gifts from your own home town.

But the holidays are more than just gifts and ribbons and perfectly packaged presents. They are about family, friends and good spirits.

Good feelings begin with looking forward to something fun, and getting caught up in preparation of it all. Expecting good things will put us in a happy, excited mood. And feeling this way actually leads to creating the kinds of good experiences we want.  It’s easy for positive emotions to build and grow into holiday spirit – that inspires others.  When one person is happy, he or she can lift the spirits of many more.

Being in a spectacularly great mood doesn’t mean there has to be an extraordinary event to look forward to. In fact, it’s often the simple things that are the most meaningful and create the most joy for people.

So what mood do you want to create this holiday season? Is it one of joy and fun? Peace and love? Giving and sharing? It’s time to think about what might make a special holiday season for you, your family, and your friends.  Begin enjoying the season as it is upon us. Play your favorite music or perhaps decorate in some special way.

Put some real love into your giving by making your own gifts. Holiday traditions of giving and sharing don’t have to mean presents, of course. Small kindnesses bring hope, comfort, and happiness to others, whether it’s donating toys for less fortunate kids or being good company for the elderly.

Starting new traditions, such as visiting those you seldom see, creating surprises, and planning or attending parties are all ways to share the spirit and joy of the holidays. Happiness is contagious and it multiplies. The more joy you give to others, the more joy you feel.

I hope you have a wonderful holiday!

By Angela Kalamaras (Branch Leader, Winston-Salem Office) – Guest Blogger