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Putting up your Christmas decorations early makes you happier, according to science

Deck the halls!

We all have that one jolly friend who insists on playing Christmas carols in November. If you’re reading this then there’s a good chance that friend is you. However, if you more closely identify with the Grinch we’ve got some bad news. A new study has found that it’s never too early to break out the tinsel and fairy lights. 

Findings published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology reveal that people who put up their Christmas decorations early are more inclined to feel warm and fuzzy. What’s more? Putting holiday decorations on your home can make you seem more approachable and sociable. 

Participants in the study rated residents based only on photographs of their home and front yard. As expected, a main effect for the decorated factor indicated that raters used Christmas decorations as a cue that the residents were friendlier than those without decorations. 

While the study didn’t specify what counts as “early” we’re assuming anytime before the traditional December 1st counts as a head start. 

This article originally appeared on marie claire

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