It’s no secret that the news can often be pretty depressing. Whether it’s a scary new virus or another political scandal, it can be hard to find any real-world good news stories in today’s society. But here are some news stories that will warm your heart, just in time for the holidays.
The News
Because it’s there: Climbers rescue lost, hungry kitten from 70-foot tall tree: If a little cat has learned anything in its short life so far, it’s that climbing trees is not a good idea. A four-month-old kitty named Honey learned her lesson again recently after she climbed up to a lofty perch in an Iowa tree and refused to come down. You see, Honey belongs to someone, who became worried when she didn’t return home after two days, so she called in some expert help. And by expert help we mean Honey’s human friends hired professional climbers from Iowa City Tree Service to scale up and retrieve their stray feline friend. No big deal!
Read stories from other people
It’s easier to feel your heart flutter when you read a stranger’s personal story than it is to conjure up those emotions on your own. While you can certainly write an inspiring piece based off your life experiences, reading other people’s stories of courage and resilience will give you something to draw from. Some of these tales will leave you in tears, others will strengthen your resolve, but all of them are guaranteed to capture your imagination. Best yet, most of these heartwarming articles have links back to their original sources so that if you like what you read, there are ways for you to reach out and say thank-you.
Do Good Deeds for Others
Giving back isn’t just a good thing to do—it also boosts your health and happiness. Recent research found that people who performed kind acts reported higher levels of life satisfaction and self-esteem, as well as lower levels of depression and stress. Make sure to regularly put others first, whether it’s a friend or an acquaintance; let people have your seat on public transportation or offer them food you won’t eat. The best part? There is no shortage of ways to help others; from volunteering at a shelter, to donating money, time or clothing—and you can choose whatever feels most comfortable for you.
Watch These Films
There are films out there that will give you goosebumps and touch your heart. Here are a few films you may want to watch, depending on how you feel: A Little Princess (if you want to laugh); The Boy in Striped Pajamas (if you want to cry); Hotel Rwanda (if you can’t decide). Of course, not all of these films are easy to watch — but they’re all worth it. And if none of these appeal, think about which emotion(s) might interest you and search for films based on them. There’s no shortage of inspiration online. In fact, with so many inspiring stories just one Google search away, why not make a list of movies that may move or inspire you?
Watch TV Shows
Many new episodes of shows that you’ve never heard of, or aren’t currently watching, are available for free online. Websites like Hulu and Crackle host reruns of popular TV shows from major networks like FOX and NBC, as well as movies from several big-name filmmakers. You can access these shows for free by streaming them directly from their respective websites. If you have an Amazon Prime account (which is free to join), you can add over a thousand free premium channels to your membership for just $6.99/month—including Showtime, Starz, Cinemax, HBO and more!
Read Novels
Reading fiction can make you a better writer, but what about reading nonfiction? If you’re struggling to write your next post or email to a client, there’s a novel for that. Several great books on writing exist (I recommend Stephen King’s On Writing and Anne Lamott’s Bird by Bird) but I like The Right To Write: An Invitation and Initiation into the Writing Life by Julia Cameron. In fact, I’m also looking forward to her new book coming out in October called The Vein of Gold which looks at how inspiration works as well as ways to spark creativity. Whenever you’re looking for a boost of inspiration or just need something to read, try plowing through some nonfiction—you may be surprised at how it helps with your writing practice.
Listen to Music
Music has been shown to reduce stress and pain—two things that are bound to creep up when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Studies show listening to music actually helps your brain grow new neurons, making you smarter and happier. Music has been shown to reduce stress and pain—two things that are bound to creep up when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Studies show listening to music actually helps your brain grow new neurons, making you smarter and happier. Here are a few other ways research shows listening to music benefits us
Take Part in Charitable Activities
Nothing is more heartwarming than helping others. Getting involved in charitable organizations will not only provide you with an opportunity to help others but also inspire others to do good as well. By simply taking part in charitable activities, you’re already making a difference in people’s lives. And if you need motivation, consider how it will make you feel when someone comes up to thank you for what you’ve done or tell you that their life has been positively affected by your efforts.