What you can do

Confuse the wonderful people who volunteer in op shops. Pay them more than they bargained for.

Hug someone ^†

Children do it instinctively, but as grown ups we don’t. Show someone you care.

Recycle your clothes or donate your glasses ^†

Make sure you drop off old clothes, blankets and household goods to op shops. Your old goods could mean the world to a family in need - www.salvos.org.au.

Many of us have old pairs of glasses that we don’t use. Find the nearest place to donate and send those old specs to a developing country - www.optometrist.com.au/donateyouroldglasses.htm

Did you know you can learn and practice the lifesaving skills of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the comfort of your own home? St John Ambulance Australia offers a 123 Personal Learning Program - www.stjohn.org.au

Take breaks and time out for you ^†

Stress is infectious. Stop the cycle from starting by staying calm. Take breaks or time out to maintain perspective. Go for a walk, make some tea or have a chat.

Register online to become an organ dono ^†

After you’ve died, let your heart beat inside someone else’s chest. Australia’s 10.4 per cent organ donor rate is the second lowest in the developed world. Tell your wishes to all your next of kin and ask about theirs - www.hic.gov.au.

For just $30 a full energy audit can be conducted on your home. Sign up for Green Power. On average it costs $5 per week. Buy appliances with one extra star to save emissions and money.

Install an energy efficient light globe ^†

Change a light bulb to save the planet and your pocketbook. An energy efficient light bulb might not seem cheap, but over it’s lifetime it can reduce electricity consumption by 75 per cent.

Use less!

For every dollar you spend 1.6 kg of CO2 was produced in making and delivering your goods, so consume less, buy second-hand items or repair old ones. Using less is good for you and the environment. Switch off lights, switch off appliances at the wall and put a jumper on.

Recycle your old books; education fuels ambition.

Spend time with someone from a different generation ^†

Spend time with someone from a different generation – you never know what you both might learn.

Donate your old home computer

Donate your old computer to a local school - http://www.ourcommunity.com.au/giving/

When kids ask you to read a story to them, it’s because they know something you don’t. They know you’ll both feel richer for the experience.

Make the holidays warm and fuzzy

Reclaim the true Christmas spirit this year by donating a toy for the PwC Smith Family Toy & Book appeal. Get your kids to buy the present; it’s a great way for them to learn to appreciate what they have.

Learn one good joke ^†

It’s proven that laughing tones your stomach, lowers your blood pressure, and makes you healthier.