Contribute to your favorite cause. Determine which is worthy of your help by figuring out what is truly important to you. Many people are working this very moment to try to advance your favorite idea, so find out about them and donate to the organization at which they're employed.

Make sure the amount you give is not enough to put you in financial difficulty, but enough so that you know you've made a substantial contribution — for you. This may be $1,000, $100, or $1. The amount is not important. What is important is its significance to your budget. Go just a little farther than what you know you are comfortable giving.

With your check, enclose a little note thanking the people who work for your cause for their dedication, good deeds, and sacrifice. Let them know you appreciate their efforts, and that it makes you feel good to realize they're working to accomplish something you deem vital.

Alan Epstein in How to Be Happier Day by Day