Life Lessons You Can Learn From Holiday Movies

Be Nice and Slooow Down

“Every Hallmark movie boils down to kindness. So much of what they say is just, like, ‘Come from a place of empathy—and have a lot of grace for people.’ Not only in romantic relationships but also in friendships and family relationships. Sometimes while I watch, I also think to myself that maybe I’m moving too fast and maybe I’m not giving anybody a chance. I think we know these lessons but get caught up in life. These movies are a nice reminder!”

—JENNA GOLDEN, aka @JIGOLDEN ON X (formerly known as Twitter), where she posts a thread reviewing every movie in Hallmark's Countdown to Christmas Lineup

Don’t Be Selfish

“There are many versions of Scrooge, but the one starring Albert Finney from 1970 is my favorite. The movie shows how money can take over a person, and how greed can make you push others out of your life. Money isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, because you can’t take it with you once you’re gone! The Ghost of Christmas Present takes Scrooge to see how people are enjoying the holidays while he’s all alone and miserable. The movie reminds you to think about others— especially around the holidays, when some people experience depression. You never know what somebody is going through.”

—DENNIS WINSTON, U.S. Postal Service Carrier based in Orlando, Florida

Have More Fun

“Hands down my favorite holiday movie is Elf. I’ve watched it sitting outside in freezing weather by a fire at a friend’s house. I’ve watched it snuggled up with my family. The first time I saw it, I had such a great feeling as the credits rolled. The movie puts a smile on your face and reminds you the holidays can be joyful at any age. Funnily enough, I worked at Disney World with the scriptwriter. I once tried to set him up with one of my friends. It was a disaster!”

—AMY GRANT, singer-songwriter who has released five Christmas albums and is known for her version of, "Grown Up Christmas List"

Enjoy the Chaos

“Our family watches National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation every year. First, I’ve learned that cutting down your own Christmas tree (which I do, by the way) is a true family adventure but worth the effort. Second, just embrace the holiday chaos because ‘it’s Christmas and we’re all in misery,’ as Beverly D’Angelo’s character says. At least a little bit. And lastly, despite the chaos, finding contentment and joy while surrounded by those we love is the most precious gift of all.”

—CHRISTA PITTS, co-creator of The Elf on the Shelf

Keep Your Tongue Inside Your Mouth

“I’ll always have fond memories of watching A Christmas Story at my grandparents’ house. On Christmas Eve, my sisters, grandfather, father, and I would watch the movie while my grandmother made cookies for us and Santa. The big lesson? Never lick a frozen flagpole. That scene has always ‘stuck’ with me.”

—JOSH RUSS TUPPER, fourth generation co-owner of Russ & Daughters, a New York City Shop and cafe known for its lox, bagels, caviar, and other goodies

Look to Kids for Inspiration

“Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey, which came out in 2020, is now a fixture in our home and in our hearts. While we appreciate representation and seeing Black leading characters on the screen, it’s the timeless theme of never giving up that really touched my soul. In the movie, a once-decorated toy maker loses his creativity after his apprentice steals his treasured book of inventions. It takes a visit from his estranged granddaughter to ignite his holiday spirit and joy for making toys again. Similarly, I have found that no matter what I’m going through, the unyielding imagination of my children brings me joy.”

—TONYA ABARI, freelance writer who's documented her family's Kwanzaa celebrations

Be Generous

“I never miss It’s a Wonderful Life at Christmastime. Every year, Clarence teaches me a thing or two about the importance of our time on this planet. When the generosity of others saves the day, and they repay George for his own kindness, it chokes me up every time. That moment reminds me what the true spirit of Christmas is all about.”

—CHANDA A. BELL, co-creator of The Elf on the Shelf

Embrace What Makes You You

“I saw Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer for the first time in third grade, and it eventually taught me the value of self-acceptance. In one of my report cards back then, a teacher wrote that I asked too many questions. So of course, I worried about it, concerned that I learned differently from other people. I felt like I had to hold back and not let that side shine. Later, I realized that my uniqueness can be my biggest superpower. I now see that my curiosity has let me develop friendships and get to know other people because they feel heard. I ask questions, and I listen to their answers. I think that’s really my greatest strength when it comes to who I am at my core.”