2024 Happiness Challenges
Joyful January
As we step into a new year, let's make a conscious effort to infuse every day with joy. Joyful January is about recognizing and appreciating the happiness that surrounds us, whether in big achievements or small, everyday moments. This month, we encourage you to look for joy in the ordinary, share happiness with others, and set the tone for a positive year ahead.
Joy does not simply happen to us. We have to choose joy and keep choosing it every day.
-Henri Nouwen
What are three small things that brought you joy this past week?
How can you create more joyful moments in your daily routine?
Reflect on a time when you felt truly happy. What were the key elements that contributed to your joy?
Activity Ideas
- Commit to a daily act of kindness - big or small.
- Organize a joy-themed photo challenge, capturing moments of joy each day.
- Host a joy potluck dinner where guests bring a dish that makes them happy.
- Plan a 'joy day' filled with your favorite activities or hobbies.
- Write and send letters of appreciation to friends or family.
- Create a joy playlist with songs that uplift and make you dance.
- Volunteer for a cause that brings you joy or helps spread joy to others.
- Set up a joy-inspired book club, reading books with positive, uplifting themes.
- Dedicate time to reconnect with nature, whether it's a walk in the park or a hike.
- Start a gratitude journal, noting three things you're grateful for each day.
New Year's Day
January 1st
A fresh start filled with hope and excitement for the year ahead.
Host a "Vision Board Party" where team members create vision boards to visualize their goals and aspirations for the new year.Martin Luther King Jr. Day
January 15th
Honoring the legacy of a man who spread a message of peace, love, and equality.
Organize a lunchtime discussion or webinar on diversity, equity, and inclusion, inspired by MLK's teachings and how they can be applied in the workplace.National Compliment Day
January 24th
Brighten someone's day with a sincere compliment; it's a simple way to spread joy.
Set up a "Compliment Wall" where employees can post anonymous compliments about their coworkers, to be read and enjoyed throughout the day.National Fun at Work Day
January 26th
Inject some joy into the workplace with fun activities and laughter.
Arrange an "Office Olympics" with light-hearted competitions such as chair races, paper airplane contests, or a scavenger hunt around the office.National Hot Chocolate Day
January 31st
Warm up with a cozy cup of hot chocolate, celebrating the sweet and simple pleasures in life.
Set up a hot chocolate bar in the break room with various toppings and flavors, allowing team members to customize their hot chocolate and enjoy a warm treat together.
Fulfilling February
February, the month of love, presents the perfect opportunity to explore what truly fulfills us both personally and professionally. This "Fulfilling February," we invite you to dive deep into your passions, values, and goals to discover what brings you the most satisfaction and joy. It's a time to align your daily actions with your long-term aspirations, ensuring that every step you take is a step towards a more fulfilled self.
Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.
-Ralph Waldo Emerson
What activity makes you lose track of time because you enjoy it so much?
How does your current professional path align with your personal values and passions?
What is one goal you can work towards this month that feels particularly meaningful to you?
Activity Ideas
- Create a "Passion Project" that you work on throughout the month.
- Schedule weekly check-ins with yourself to reflect on your progress and feelings.
- Start a professional development book club with colleagues or friends.
- Volunteer for a cause that resonates with your personal values.
- Host a "Career Vision" workshop where you map out professional goals and steps to achieve them.
- Plan a "No Interruptions" day each week dedicated to deep work on fulfilling tasks.
- Organize a mentorship coffee chat, either as a mentor or mentee.
- Commit to a daily or weekly creative hobby that brings you joy.
- Write and send out personalized "thank you" notes to people who have impacted your professional journey.
- Implement a new habit that contributes to your personal growth or well-being.
Groundhog Day
February 2nd
A day celebrated with the folklore of a groundhog predicting the weather.
Host a team prediction contest for fun milestones or projects outcomes in the upcoming months.Valentine's Day
February 14th
A day to celebrate love in all its forms, including the love for one's work and passion.
Host a "Love What You Do" lunch where team members share what they love about their job or passion projects.Random Acts of Kindness Day
February 17th
A day dedicated to spreading kindness.
Organize a "Kindness Challenge" where employees perform random acts of kindness for coworkers.Presidents' Day
February 19th
A day to honor the leaders of the United States and reflect on leadership qualities.
Have a leadership workshop or a discussion on the qualities of a good leader and how everyone can embody them in their roles.National Love Your Pet Day
February 20th
Celebrating the special bond between pets and their owners.
Allow employees to bring their pets to work for the day or share photos and stories of their pets during a team meeting.International Stand Up to Bullying Day
February 23rd
A day to take a stand against bullying and foster a culture of kindness and respect.
Conduct a workshop on creating a positive and inclusive workplace culture, emphasizing teamwork and support.Leap Day
February 29th
An extra day added every four years to keep our calendar in alignment with the Earth's revolutions around the Sun.
Use this "extra" day to leap into something new – a team-building activity outside the office or a creative brainstorming session for innovative ideas.
Motivate March
March is the month to transform your aspirations into action. Motivate March is about finding what drives you and taking bold steps towards your goals. It's a time to shake off any inertia and move forward with energy and determination. This month, we encourage you to identify your motivations, set actionable goals, and create a plan to achieve them. Let's make March the month where dreams begin to materialize through focused effort and determination.
The secret of getting ahead is getting started.
-Mark Twain
What are your top three goals for this year, and what steps can you take this month to progress towards them?
Reflect on a time when you felt highly motivated. What sparked that motivation, and how can you recreate it now?
How do you overcome moments of demotivation or obstacles that stand in the way of your goals?
Activity Ideas
- Set clear, measurable goals for the month and break them down into weekly tasks.
- Start a "Motivation Monday" tradition where you share inspiring stories or quotes with friends or colleagues.
- Organize a goal-setting workshop or seminar.
- Create a vision board that illustrates your goals and aspirations.
- Implement a daily or weekly progress tracking system for your goals.
- Engage in a physical challenge to boost your energy and mental clarity, aiding goal achievement.
- Plan a networking event or attend one to connect with people who inspire you.
- Start a new hobby or learn a new skill that aligns with your long-term goals.
- Dedicate time each week to read books or listen to podcasts related to your goals.
- Volunteer for a cause that resonates with your personal values and goals.
International Women's Day
March 8th
Celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women.
Host a panel discussion or showcase highlighting the achievements of women in your industry or community.Pi Day
March 14th
An annual celebration of the mathematical constant π (pi).
Organize a Pi Day contest with pie baking, pie eating, and fun math challenges.St. Patrick's Day
March 17th
A cultural and religious celebration held on the anniversary of Saint Patrick's death.
Encourage wearing green and decorate the office with shamrocks; host a lunch with traditional Irish food.First Day of Spring
March 19th
Marking the start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.
Organize a spring clean-up day, encouraging employees to declutter their workspace and donate unused items.International Day of Happiness
March 20th
The International Day of Happiness aims to make people around the world realize the importance of happiness within their lives.
Host a series of happiness events around the work-place.World Water Day
March 22nd
A day to advocate for the sustainable management of freshwater resources.
Host a workshop or presentation on water conservation practices and how employees can implement them at work and home.
Affection April
April showers bring more than May flowers; they also bring a season of warmth, kindness, and affection. Affection April is a time to embrace the power of love, kindness, and compassion in our interactions with others. This month, we focus on nurturing our relationships, extending a helping hand to those in need, and spreading positivity in our communities. Let's use this month to make a conscious effort to show affection and appreciation to those around us, creating a ripple effect of kindness.
Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.
-Mother Teresa
What are some ways you can show affection to those closest to you this month?
How can you extend kindness to someone you don’t know well or a stranger?
Reflect on a time when someone’s act of kindness made a significant impact on your day. How can you pay it forward?
Activity Ideas
- Write and send handwritten letters or cards to friends and family expressing your appreciation.
- Volunteer for community service or a charity event as a way to show affection to your community.
- Organize a “Random Acts of Kindness” day at work, encouraging colleagues to participate.
- Host a potluck dinner with friends or neighbors to foster community spirit.
- Donate books, clothes, or food to those in need, showing affection through giving.
- Plan a surprise for someone who has been going through a tough time.
- Start a compliment chain on social media, tagging friends to post something positive about someone else.
- Create care packages for the homeless or for children in hospitals.
- Plant a tree or start a garden as an act of kindness to the Earth.
- Spend quality time with family members or friends who need support or companionship.
April Fools’ Day
April 1st
A day known for practical jokes and laughter, bringing joy and bonding opportunities.
Organize a lighthearted prank contest with guidelines to ensure all pranks are positive and inclusive.National Volunteer Week
Third week of April
A week dedicated to encouraging volunteerism and recognizing volunteer efforts.
Organize group volunteer opportunities or highlight and celebrate employees’ volunteer work outside the office.Earth Day
April 22nd
A day to demonstrate support for environmental protection.
Initiate a green project, like planting a garden at your office or organizing a local clean-up.World Book Day
April 23rd
A celebration of authors, illustrators, books, and reading across the globe.
Host a book swap or a book club discussion during lunch hours to share the joy of reading.Administrative Professionals’ Day
April 24th
Recognizing the work of secretaries, administrative assistants, and other office professionals.
Show appreciation with a special lunch, gifts, or a surprise thank-you event for administrative staff.
Momentum May
As spring blossoms into full swing, Momentum May reminds us of the importance of keeping up the pace with our goals, projects, and personal development. This month is about harnessing the energy and progress we've built so far and propelling ourselves forward with determination and resilience. Whether it's a goal set at the start of the year, a new habit you're trying to establish, or a project nearing completion, let's focus on maintaining momentum and overcoming any hurdles with grace and perseverance.
Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.
-Thomas A. Edison
What goals or projects have you made significant progress on, and what steps will you take this month to maintain or increase that momentum?
How do you deal with setbacks or obstacles that threaten to slow your progress?
What strategies or routines have you found most effective for keeping yourself motivated and on track?
Activity Ideas
- Review and adjust your goals to ensure they still align with your vision and priorities.
- Organize a mid-year review of personal and professional goals with a mentor or peer group.
- Start a 30-day challenge related to a goal or habit you're working on.
- Create a progress journal to document your achievements and reflections.
- Implement a weekly planning session to set priorities and actions for maintaining momentum.
- Share your goals and progress on social media or a blog to create accountability.
- Organize a "goal buddies" system in your workplace or among friends to support each other's goals.
- Attend a workshop or webinar to learn new strategies for goal achievement and productivity.
- Schedule regular breaks and self-care activities to prevent burnout and keep motivation high.
- Celebrate small wins and milestones to recognize the progress you've made.
International Workers' Day
May 1st
A celebration of laborers and the working classes.
Host a team-building event or workshop focusing on productivity and well-being in the workplace.Cinco de Mayo
May 5th
A day commemorating the Mexican army's victory over France at the Battle of Puebla.
Organize a cultural appreciation lunch or event featuring Mexican cuisine and history.Mother’s Day
May 13th
A day to honor and celebrate mothers and mother figures.
Encourage employees to share stories or lessons learned from their mothers or mother figures during a team meeting.National Bike to Work Day
May 20th
Promotes bicycling as a healthy and sustainable transportation option.
Organize a group bike ride to work or sponsor a "bike to work" day with incentives for participants.Memorial Day
May 27th
A day to honor and remember those who have died in military service to the United States.
Observe a moment of silence together and possibly organize a community service project to support veterans or active military members and their families.
Journey June
June is the gateway to summer, a perfect time for exploration and new experiences. Journey June encourages you to step out of your comfort zone, whether that means traveling to new places, trying new activities, or learning new skills. This month, we focus on the journey itself, not just the destination. It's about growing, discovering, and embracing the adventures life offers. Let's make June a month to remember by seeking out new horizons and expanding our knowledge and experiences.
Not all those who wander are lost.
-J.R.R. Tolkien
What is one new place you would like to explore this month, and what draws you to it?
How can you incorporate learning into your daily routine or embark on a new learning journey?
Reflect on a past adventure or learning experience. How did it impact your perspective or personal growth?
Activity Ideas
- Plan a day trip or weekend getaway to a place you've never been before.
- Start learning a new language or skill that interests you.
- Take a different route on your walk or drive and discover something new in your own city.
- Attend a cultural festival or event to experience new traditions and foods.
- Create a travel journal or blog to document your adventures and what you learn.
- Organize a "virtual travel" evening, where you explore a country's culture, food, and music from home.
- Join a class or workshop in something outside of your comfort zone, like dance, painting, or cooking a new cuisine.
- Set a challenge to read books or watch documentaries about different countries or cultures.
- Volunteer for a cause or organization that introduces you to new people and perspectives.
- Host a themed dinner party with dishes from around the world, encouraging guests to share stories of their travels or heritage.
World Environment Day
June 5th
A day dedicated to encouraging worldwide awareness and action for the protection of our environment.
Organize a team outing for a local clean-up or tree-planting initiative.National Best Friends Day
June 8th
Celebrating the special bond of friendship and the adventures friends share.
Host a "bring your best friend to work" day or organize a team-building retreat.Father’s Day
June 16th
Honoring fathers and father figures and their influence in society.
Invite team members to share lessons or adventures they've had with their fathers or father figures.International Yoga Day
June 21st
Recognizing the universal appeal of yoga and its benefits for both physical and mental health.
Arrange for a professional yoga instructor to lead a yoga session for the office, promoting wellness and relaxation.
Joyous July
July, with its bright, warm days, invites us to bask in the joy of summer. Joyous July is about finding and cultivating joy in every aspect of our lives—be it in our relationships, work, hobbies, or the simple, everyday moments. This month, we encourage you to actively seek out joy, create it, and share it with others. Let’s make this July a celebration of the happiness that exists all around us, and let’s spread that joy far and wide.
Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.
-Thich Nhat Hanh
What are the simple pleasures that bring you joy in everyday life?
How can you bring more joy into your work or personal projects this month?
Think of a person who embodies joy for you. What qualities do they possess, and how can you incorporate those into your own life?
Activity Ideas
- Start each day by listing three things you’re grateful for to cultivate joy from the moment you wake up.
- Host a joy-themed party or gathering with friends or family where everyone shares something that brings them joy.
- Commit to a random act of kindness each day to spread joy to others.
- Take time to enjoy nature—plan a hike, a beach day, or a picnic in the park.
- Create a joy journal where you document moments that bring you happiness each day.
- Organize a community event that focuses on bringing joy to those in need, such as a charity fundraiser or a free workshop.
- Dedicate time to a hobby or activity you love but haven’t made time for recently.
- Implement a digital detox day to reconnect with yourself and those around you without distractions.
- Explore a new place in your city or town and find joy in the adventure of discovery.
- Share stories of joyful moments with colleagues, friends, or family to inspire and uplift each other.
Independence Day
July 4th
Celebrating the United States' independence, marked by festivities and fireworks.
Host a themed office party or picnic with games, music, and a potluck of traditional American foods.World Chocolate Day
July 7th
A day to indulge in and celebrate the joys of chocolate.
Have a chocolate tasting event or a chocolate-themed bake-off among colleagues.World Emoji Day
July 17th
Celebrating the colorful and expressive world of emojis.
Host an emoji-themed contest where employees guess the meanings of emoji combinations or create stories using only emojis.National Ice Cream Day
July 21st
A day to enjoy and savor ice cream, a symbol of summer joy.
Set up an ice cream sundae bar with a variety of flavors and toppings for employees to enjoy.International Day of Friendship
July 30th
A day dedicated to celebrating friendship worldwide.
Organize a team-building retreat or a “bring a friend to work” day to foster friendships and connections.
Action August
As we enter the heart of summer, Action August calls us to transform our aspirations into tangible actions. This month is about making strides in personal dreams, contributing to community projects, or addressing global issues. It's a time to move from intention to implementation, harnessing the energy and warmth of August to initiate change. Whether it's a step towards a personal goal, volunteering for a local cause, or advocating for a global initiative, let's commit to action that creates a positive impact.
Small deeds done are better than great deeds planned.
-Peter Marshall
What is one personal dream you've been putting off that you can take action on this month?
How can you contribute to a community project or cause you care about in August?
What global issue speaks to you, and what steps can you take to make a difference, even in a small way?
Activity Ideas
- Identify a personal goal and break it down into actionable steps, starting with one action you can take this week.
- Volunteer for a local charity, non-profit, or community project and dedicate a day or more to helping out.
- Organize or participate in a cleanup drive in your neighborhood or a local park.
- Host a workshop or seminar on a cause you're passionate about to educate and inspire others to take action.
- Start a petition or awareness campaign for a global issue you care about and share it through your social networks.
- Create a personal or community garden to promote sustainability and environmental awareness.
- Mentor someone who could benefit from your skills, experience, or encouragement.
- Commit to a "no waste" week, focusing on reducing your environmental footprint through conscious consumption and waste reduction.
- Join or organize a fundraising event for a cause or organization close to your heart.
- Write letters or emails to local representatives about issues you're concerned with, advocating for change or support.
International Youth Day
August 12th
A day dedicated to celebrating the potential of youth as partners in today’s global society.
Organize a panel or discussion featuring young leaders or entrepreneurs to share insights and inspire action among employees.World Humanitarian Day
August 19th
A day to pay tribute to aid workers who risk their lives in humanitarian service, and to rally support for people affected by crises around the world.
Host a charity drive or fundraiser in the office to support humanitarian efforts globally or locally.National Dog Day
August 26th
Celebrating the unconditional love and companionship provided by dogs.
Allow employees to bring their dogs to work for the day or organize a visit to a local animal shelter for volunteering.Women's Equality Day
August 26th
Commemorating the 1920 adoption of the Nineteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, granting women the right to vote.
Host a seminar or workshop on gender equality and inclusion in the workplace.
Supportive September
As the season transitions from summer to autumn, Supportive September reminds us of the importance of standing by one another. This month, we focus on offering our hands, hearts, and resources to support those around us—be it friends, family, or community members. It's a time to reinforce the bonds of support that knit us together, ensuring no one feels alone in their struggles or achievements. Let’s dedicate this September to being pillars of support, fostering a sense of unity and strength within our communities.
What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal.
-Albert Pike
Who in your life may be in need of support right now, and how can you offer them assistance or encouragement?
Reflect on a time when you received support during a difficult period. How did it impact your situation and feelings?
What are some barriers that prevent people from asking for support, and how can you help overcome these barriers within your community?
Activity Ideas
- Organize a community support initiative, like a food drive or a fundraiser for a local charity.
- Offer your skills or time to friends or family members who need help with specific tasks or projects.
- Create a “support squad” within your workplace or among friends to check in on each other regularly.
- Host a workshop or seminar on mental health awareness and the importance of seeking and offering support.
- Volunteer at local shelters, hospitals, or nursing homes to offer companionship and assistance.
- Start a peer mentoring program in your community or workplace to foster support and growth.
- Plan a “Support Local” day, encouraging friends and community members to support local businesses and artisans.
- Organize a community clean-up or beautification project to support your local environment.
- Facilitate a donation campaign for school supplies for families in need as the new school year begins.
- Create a support or resource group on social media for people to share and receive advice on common challenges.
Labor Day
September 2nd
Honoring the contributions of workers and the labor movement.
Host a recognition event to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of employees, including awards or commendations.World Suicide Prevention Day
September 10th
Promoting awareness and action to prevent suicides.
Organize a workshop or seminar on mental health awareness, providing resources and promoting open discussions on support and prevention.International Day of Peace
September 21st
A day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples.
Facilitate a moment of silence followed by a discussion or activity focused on promoting peace and understanding in the workplace and beyond.World Gratitude Day
September 21st
A day to reflect on and express gratitude for the many blessings in our lives.
Create a “Wall of Gratitude” where employees can post notes expressing what they are grateful for, encouraging a culture of appreciation and support.
Optimize October
As autumn deepens, Optimize October encourages us to fine-tune the various aspects of our lives for better balance, efficiency, and fulfillment. This month is about taking a closer look at our habits, routines, and goals to identify areas for improvement. Whether it's adopting healthier lifestyle practices, streamlining work processes, or enriching our personal lives, let's dedicate this October to making thoughtful adjustments that lead to a more optimized way of living.
You can’t change what’s going on around you until you start changing what’s going on within you.
-Zig Ziglar
What are some habits in your daily routine that could be adjusted for a healthier lifestyle?
How can you make your work or study processes more efficient and productive?
In what ways can you enrich your personal or family life to make it more fulfilling?
Activity Ideas
- Implement a weekly meal planning routine to optimize nutrition and health.
- Conduct a time audit for one week to identify and reduce inefficiencies in your work or personal schedule.
- Start a daily or weekly exercise routine that fits into your schedule comfortably.
- Organize your workspace or home to reduce clutter and improve focus and productivity.
- Adopt a digital detox day each week to improve mental health and personal relationships.
- Set specific, measurable goals for personal development and track your progress.
- Learn a new skill or hobby that contributes to your personal growth or enjoyment.
- Schedule regular breaks throughout your workday to prevent burnout and maintain high productivity.
- Create a budget or financial plan to optimize your savings and spending habits.
- Practice mindfulness or meditation to improve mental clarity and stress management.
World Smile Day
October 4th
A day dedicated to smiles and acts of kindness. Brighten someone's day!
Organize a "Compliment Exchange" where each colleague writes a positive note for another, and everyone gets to read theirs aloud.World Mental Health Day
October 10th
A reminder of the importance of mental well-being and spreading positivity.
Host a workshop or seminar on mental health and well-being, offering tools and resources for support.Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples' Day
October 14th
A day to recognize discovery and the diverse cultures that make up our history.
Host a "Cultural Potluck" where team members bring in dishes from their heritage or a culture they admire.Global Handwashing Day
October 15th
A day to support global and community health through the promotion of handwashing with soap.
Organize a campaign or challenge to promote healthy hygiene practices in the workplace.Boss’s Day
October 16th
A day to appreciate and thank bosses for their support and leadership.
Coordinate a team gesture or gift to show appreciation for your boss’s hard work and guidance.Halloween
October 31st
A festive celebration observed in many countries with activities like trick-or-treating, costume parties, and carving pumpkins.
Organize a costume contest and Halloween party with themed games and activities for team bonding.
Note-worthy November
As the year begins to wind down, Note-worthy November invites us to pause and reflect on the accomplishments and progress made throughout the year, both personally and by those around us. This month is about recognizing and celebrating the steps we've taken towards our goals, the challenges we've overcome, and the growth we've experienced. Let's take the time to acknowledge our own achievements and those of our communities, shining a light on the hard work, dedication, and resilience that have led us to this point.
To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.
-Ralph Waldo Emerson
What personal achievements have you accomplished this year that you are most proud of?
How have your actions contributed to the success or support of your community?
Who in your life deserves recognition for their accomplishments, and how can you celebrate them this month?
Appreciation can make a day, even change a life. Your willingness to put it into words is all that is necessary.
-Margaret Cousins
Activity Ideas
- Write a personal reflection or journal entry about your accomplishments this year.
- Host a community appreciation event to celebrate local heroes and achievements.
- Create an "achievement wall" at work or school where individuals can post their accomplishments.
- Send handwritten notes or messages of appreciation to friends, family, and colleagues who have achieved something this year.
- Organize a charity fundraiser or volunteer day in honor of a cause that has made significant strides this year.
- Share stories of personal or community achievements on social media to inspire others.
- Plan a "thanksgiving" dinner with friends or family to express gratitude for the year's accomplishments.
- Start a mentorship program to recognize and cultivate the potential in others.
- Host a workshop or seminar focused on goal setting and achievement strategies for the upcoming year.
- Create a time capsule that captures this year's achievements and plan to open it in the future.
All Saints' Day
November 1st
A day to honor and remember the saints, known and unknown.
Encourage employees to share stories of people they admire for their virtues or contributions to the community, fostering a sense of inspiration and respect in the workplace.Veterans Day
November 11th
Honoring military veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
Organize a recognition ceremony or moment of silence for veterans within your organization, including sharing stories of service and sacrifice.World Kindness Day
November 13th
A day to highlight good deeds in the community focusing on the positive power of kindness.
Encourage acts of kindness within the workplace, such as leaving positive notes for colleagues or organizing a collection for a local charity.Thanksgiving Day
November 28th
A day for giving thanks for the blessing of the harvest and of the preceding year.
Host a potluck lunch where team members can share dishes and stories of what they're thankful for, including personal and professional achievements.Black Friday
November 29th
The biggest shopping day of the year.
Host a “Kindness Challenge,” encouraging employees to perform random acts of kindness throughout the day, whether it’s leaving a kind note on a coworker’s desk or bringing in treats for the team.Small Business Saturday
November 30th
Encouraging holiday shoppers to patronize brick and mortar businesses that are small and local.
Support local small businesses by organizing a market day at work where local artisans and entrepreneurs can showcase their products.
Delightful December
As the year draws to a close, Delightful December invites us to embrace the joy and warmth of the holiday season. This month is about recognizing the beauty in the small moments, the kindness in simple gestures, and the happiness that comes from within and from those around us. Let's make this December a time of celebration, reflection, and spreading delight in every corner of our lives. Whether through festive traditions, quiet moments of gratitude, or acts of generosity, let's end the year on a note of joy and contentment.
Happiness often sneaks in through a door you didn’t know you left open.
-John Barrymore
What small moments have brought you unexpected joy this year?
How can you create moments of delight for yourself and others this December?
In what ways can you practice gratitude during the holiday season?
Activity Ideas
- Decorate your home or workspace with festive cheer to brighten up the winter days.
- Write and send handwritten holiday cards to friends and family expressing your gratitude and love.
- Bake cookies or other holiday treats to share with neighbors, colleagues, and loved ones.
- Organize a secret Santa or holiday gift exchange to spread joy and surprise among friends or coworkers.
- Volunteer your time or resources to a local charity, bringing warmth and support to those in need.
- Take a festive lights tour in your city or neighborhood to enjoy the holiday displays.
- Host a holiday movie night, complete with hot cocoa and blankets, for a cozy evening in.
- Create DIY holiday gifts or decorations as a way to personalize your celebrations.
- Plan a winter nature walk to appreciate the beauty of the season, even in the cold.
- Reflect on the year’s joys and challenges by writing a letter to yourself, to be opened next December.
Cyber Monday
December 2nd
The online counterpart to Black Friday.
Set up a “Deal Sharing Board” where employees can post and share the best online deals they find, turning it into a fun and collaborative event.Christmas Eve
December 24th
The anticipation of Christmas Day fills the air, and everyone is in high spirits. It’s a time for last-minute preparations and looking forward to the joy of the holiday.
Allow employees to leave a few hours early if possible, as a gesture of goodwill and appreciation for their hard work throughout the year.Christmas Day
December 25th
Celebrating the spirit of Christmas with gift-giving, family gatherings, and festive meals.
Host a festive lunch or dinner party for employees, including a gift exchange and holiday music.Boxing Day
December 26th
Traditionally a day to give to the less fortunate, Boxing Day is a time for charity and kindness.
Organize a donation drive in the office, collecting items for a local charity, shelter, or food bank.Kwanzaa
December 26th - January 1st
A week-long celebration honoring African heritage in African-American culture, culminating in a feast and gift-giving.
Organize a Kwanzaa celebration with educational presentations, traditional African dishes, and discussions on the principles of Kwanzaa.Hanukkah
December 26th - January 2nd
This Jewish festival lasts for eight nights and days, celebrating the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days in the Holy Temple. It’s marked by the lighting of the menorah, traditional foods, games, and gifts.
Invite a speaker to share the traditions and significance of Hanukkah, accompanied by the lighting of a menorah and traditional foods.New Year's Eve
December 31st
Marking the end of the year and the beginning of the new year with celebrations, reflections, and resolutions.
Host a year-end celebration or reflection session, allowing team members to share their accomplishments, lessons learned, and aspirations for the new year.
