The holidays are here and, whether you are happy or hassled (probably a bit of both) you’ve heard “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Holidays" dozens of times so far—and it's not over yet! The sentiment is lovely, but any phrase you repeat too often loses sincerity and punch.

Starting right now, find other sincere ways to express your good wishes to friends. Something as simple as expanding it to "I HOPE YOU HAVE A wonderful Christmas" or "I WISH YOU joyous holidays" works. For some, "Have a cool Christmas" is fun. (Awesome??? Nah.)

Many of us have Spanish friends. They'll love hearing "Feliz Navidad" from your lips. Or say it in your friends' other languages. Just pronounce it right! Here's a helpful YouTube video on how to pronounce "Merry Christmas” in 16 languages: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8hrsslV5hco

Of course you want to be respectful of cultures which don't celebrate Christmas. You needn’t go so far as saying "Happy Christmahanukwanzakah" or “Have a happy non-denomination winter solstice.”  Choose a greeting appropriate for his/her culture but just change a few words to make it sound special for your friend.

And from me to you, I wish you a wonderful next few days—and rest of your life. 

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