We are knee deep in 'holiday'. All that seems to play on the radio is holiday-inspired music, Christmas lights are everywhere, and Hanukkah officially started a few evenings ago. It has it's upsides though, everyone is in a little bit of a giving mood, we haven't entered the February slump that hits my home state of Iowa at the end of every winter. At this time we are all thinking of our family and friends, but also hopefully our favorite charities, as well as volunteering our time.

Unfortunately though, one person always gets left behind every holiday season... you. While it is fantastic that December is always dedicated to everyone else, winter is a hard season to get through for most people, especially in locations that really feel it in the weather. Depression looms around the corner, and when one person is depressed the feeling spreads like wildfire. Possibly the best thing you can do for everyone else this winter is to take care of yourself.

I don't think that everyone should become self-centered and conceited, but you have to admit that on the days you feel self-assured and beautiful, you are much more likely to give a dollar to the homeless man downtown, or leave an extra big tip when you are at a restaurant. That feeling in yourself is what helps make the world go round, and is what inspires those initial good deeds. Perhaps if everyone was nicer to themselves, we wouldn't even have to wait until token holidays to start giving to others.

So while you are giving gift cards and money and presents, as well as quality time, to everyone else, make sure to do a few things for yourself. Maybe make a note to tell yourself that you are truly beautiful, inside and out. Maybe while you are shopping for other people, buy something for yourself that you otherwise wouldn't have. Learn something to better yourself. Set aside time for a relaxing bubble bath with a good book, but every week instead of whenever you find the time.

You don't always have to have a concrete reason to treat yourself well. Sure, New Years is a great time to set a goal for treating your physical body right, but why wait until then? Better yet, why only focus on your physical body, as most everyone does. Don't do a fad diet, don't promise to work out 8 days a week. Instead, splurge on your favorite fruits and delight in how delicious every single one tastes, congratulate yourself that you managed to work out twice a week, on your first try!

Don't forget that you also exist during this holiday season, because pessimism spreads, as does that contagious happiness and confidence that only comes with knowing that you are worth while as a person.