LPT: If you're not spending the holidays with family, buy a gift for someone else in need. You can still get a nice, big share of warm-fuzzies.

Finally break free of your family of narcissists and drug abusers? Working or can't afford to travel home this year? Maybe like many of us, the last few in your small family have passed away. No matter what your situation or belief structure is, winter has always been a season of sharing. Don't skip out on those good feelings just because your life doesn't look like a greeting card. Pick up a wish list from a community center, school, or nursing home. Drop off toys to the fire or police station. Volunteer somewhere. Hey, holidays can be depressing. We all know this. But instead of keeping your head down and waiting for them to be over, realize that we each have something to offer this world and it's okay to want a helping of all the good vibes going around. Making at least one small gesture like this is a great way to remind yourself of your value and bring a smile to someone else too.