It’s the Holiday season for billions of people and the Winter Solstice, Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa are all approaching soon. Photo of the Na Pali Coast on the island of Kauai in Hawaii from the viewpoint of the Pacific Ocean with the words "Choose to be kind and refrain from anger".

It’s a time for celebrations both spiritual and secular. It can be a time of great joy but also a time where people feel lonely, stressed, and angry. The expectations at this time of the year can be pretty high.

When you’re at dinner with family that trigger you, take a deep breath and try to remember a time when you felt warmth and love toward them. Then, wish them that feeling, too, even if it’s just in your head.

If you’re out shopping and someone pushes ahead of you in line or takes your parking spot, it’s ok to be annoyed or frustrated. You can even want to tell them off, but instead, step back and wish them well. It will feel better later.

If you’re at a Holiday party and someone rubs you the wrong way, remember that they’re also trying to be happy through this time. Wish them a calm and peaceful season. Thinking those thoughts is enough.

The most important thing is to remember that your life is filled with abundance. When you’re comparing yourself with someone else and the happiness they appear to have, just think of all the people in the world struggling. You’re not the only one.

We’re all looking for peace and love, calm and joy, contentment and happiness. This time of year just sometimes feels like the expectations are higher.

Choose to be kind as often as possible. Kindness can be a radical and revolutionary act, so lead the way for those around you. Happy Holidays!