If you’re the type who eagerly sets up the Christmas tree and hangs the garlands right after the Halloween festivities, you’ll be pleased to know that there’s some scientific backing for your enthusiasm. Research indicates that those who start decorating for the holidays early tend to experience increased happiness. Yes, that’s right — putting up Christmas decorations ahead of time can elevate your mood.
People generally fall into two categories: those who can’t wait to fill their homes with festive decor and those who prefer to wait. If you’re not blasting holiday tunes by mid-year, we might not see eye to eye. According to psychoanalyst Rachel Johnson, the act of decorating early allows individuals to reconnect with joyful memories from their childhood. “In today’s fast-paced and often stressful environment, people gravitate toward things that evoke happiness, and Christmas decorations are a powerful reminder of those cherished childhood moments,” she shared with Modern Family Blog. “These decorations serve as an anchor, helping to rekindle that sense of wonder and excitement.”
Moreover, a study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology demonstrated that homes adorned with festive decorations are perceived as friendlier, with their owners seen as more sociable compared to those who keep their homes bare during the holiday season. So, don’t hesitate to hang those wreaths and light-up figures; they signify your warmth and openness to community interaction. Just a gentle reminder — try to take those holiday lights down before Memorial Day to maintain your title as the “Best Neighbor Ever.”
Early decorating not only helps communicate friendliness to others but also enhances our own sense of well-being. Psychologist and author of 13 Ways to Cultivate Mental Strength, Lisa Bennett, remarked on how holiday nostalgia allows individuals to reconnect with their personal histories, helping to shape their identities. For many, the act of putting up decorations can also serve as a means to remember loved ones who may no longer be with us. “For some, early decorating fosters a connection to those who have passed, evoking fond memories of joyous times spent together,” Bennett explained. While the holidays can be overwhelming, they can also be a time filled with beloved family memories.
Ultimately, there’s no right or wrong time to start decorating for the holidays. In a world where a little extra joy is always welcome, why not embrace the holiday spirit as soon as it feels right for you? Whether it’s dusting off decorations or setting up a festive display, early holiday cheer might just be what we all need.
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Summary
Research suggests that putting up Christmas decorations early can enhance happiness by evoking nostalgic memories and fostering a sense of community. Early decorators may feel more connected to their past and to their neighbors, creating a warm atmosphere that invites interaction.