The holiday season is here! It is a time of celebration and joy — and it's my favorite time of year. If you are looking for some little ways to get into the holiday spirit and spread joy to those around you, here are some cheap and easy ways to do that.

11. Write a letter to someone at a local nursing home.

Do you have 10 minutes to spare? Writing a letter to someone at a nursing home is an awesome way to show that person that you're thinking of them this holiday season. You don't have to know the person. Sometimes, sending letters to random people can be even more meaningful because they were not expecting anything.

10. Share an inspirational message to a friend in need of encouragement.

Think of a friend who has been feeling down recently. Take some time out of your day to talk to them and give them encouraging words. You never know what is going on in their life and how much your message could help them.

9. Compliment a stranger.

Random compliments are nice because they are usually genuine. Why would you go out of your way to point something out about someone you don't know unless you truly meant it? Find a stranger and tell them something that you've noticed is really lovely about them — maybe compliment the color of their eyes or their smile.

8. Give your time.

Do you know of any volunteer opportunities near you? I bet you do. If you don't, look it up on the internet. There are ALWAYS ways to help in your local community! If only for a couple hours, the time that you give will make a difference to at least one person.

7. Spread the Word of God

What other way to spread joy than... spreading joy through the Word? Go to whoever you can find first and start up a conversation about God. Spend some time in the Word and use what you learn to educate others! Now I know this is easier said than done in some cases - but trust that God is with you. Don't be afraid of people's reactions. If they don't want to accept the joy you are giving them, leave that to part to God. You could ignite a fire in the heart of someone who has never realized God in their life, or you could give someone a reminder and end up turning their life back on track towards a close relationship with God. Who knows if you never try?

6. Donate gently used items.

We all have things that we don't use enough to keep. One man's junk is another man's treasure! Someone might really enjoy some of the things we have but never put to use. Keep that in mind this holiday season. Donating is a great way to spread joy to those in need.

5. Pass along a book to someone new

A thoughtful idea to spread joy is to pass along a book that you have read to someone who might enjoy it. It lets the person know that you think of them and want to pass along something of yours to them. Passing along a book is a flattering hand-me-down.

4. Give a homemade gift

A homemade gift is often times more special than a bought gift. Taking the time to actually make something for someone shows them that you are willing to devote effort into the relationship. Homemade gifts cannot just be replaced, which makes it even more special.

3. Go Christmas caroling.

"The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear." If you've seen Elf, you probably recognize this quote. Buddy the Elf is right! Look out for groups that go Christmas caroling at local nursing homes or hospitals. It's a great way to spread Christmas joy and get in the spirit yourself!

2. Show gratitude to a teacher.

We owe so much to our teachers! I would not be who I am today if it wasn't for each and every one of them. Thank your teachers, coaches, tutors, and anyone else who has dedicated their time to teach you.

1. Reflect on the joy in your life.

One of the most important things to do in order to spread joy to others is to appreciate the joy in your life. We have so much to be grateful for, but sometimes we get caught up in our busy schedules and forget about all the blessings in our lives. This holiday season, reflect on the joy in your life and intentionally take time to feel gratitude for those things.