Five ideas to bring a smile in 2021

With the festive season being rather different, it’s the perfect time to consider new things to do for you family and friends in the new year. 2021 is just around the corner and this is the best time to reflect on changes for the near future. Here is a list of five ideas that will make your life better.

Make something

With a lot of the country spending more time at home, many people have more time on their hands than usual, and many took up new hobbies during lockdown, such as crafts and baking. Christmas is the perfect time to put all this to good use. Whether it’s baking some shortbread or knitting a scarf, making something by hand is a great way to learn something and show people close to you that you care for them. The time put into it is a thoughtful and heartfelt way to make someone very happy.

Donate to a charity 

Christmas doesn’t just have to be about spending money. Sometimes it can be a lot more meaningful to give to charities or those in need. Find a cause close to a loved one’s heart and make a donation or pledge in their name. Whether it’s helping the homeless or the environment, this gesture is sure to bring a smile to their face whilst doing some good in the world. 2021 will be a much better year if we all care for one another. Just find the charitable organisation that is closest to your heart.

Choose something to plant

This year has highlighted the importance of spending time outside and in nature; a tree, seeds or flower bulbs are a great gift to encourage outdoor relaxation, as well as give back to the environment. These Dutch-grown tulip bulbs are the perfect alternative present to brighten up an outside space. There are also organisations that will plant a tree on your loved one’s behalf for those who don’t have gardens.

Help out

Sometimes a helping hand can go a lot further than any other gesture. For those spending regular time with their relatives, help out around the house more, whether it’s with cleaning or cooking up a big dinner. Small things like lending a hand with a clear-out or washing the car can also be a really practical way of letting someone feel the love. Considering how things went during the past nine months, this is definitely a very positive way of entering the new year.

Give them an IOU

There are lots of things this year that people have really missed – concerts, holidays, restaurants, festivals and sporting events to name a few. Though it’s not clear when some of these things will be an option again, why not plan to go once it’s a possibility. Write your special person a card promising to take them to their favourite restaurant or perhaps to see their favourite band in 2021, when life is a bit more normal. This will offer something to both look forward to and enjoy together.

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