December 1, 2021 – The holiday season is one of joy, a time that should allow us to reflect on what is good in our lives. For most, our family and friends immediately come to mind. There are also those less fortunate than us who should be considered for a share of what we are blessed with. Time for self-reflection? No way!
The holiday season is also one of the most stressful times of the year. There are plenty of self-help tips out there for those who are looking for ways to “take the edge off.” From my research, the following articles provide a great perspective on how to make it through the season. Many of the ideas ask us to set realistic expectations – good advice for those who are easily disappointed.
- 7 Holiday Expectations That Can Ruin the Season (and how to deal with them)
- 9 Tips for A Stress-Free Holiday
In truth, the easiest way to cope with stress over the holidays, or any time for that matter, is to explore the values in your life – those core beliefs about what makes for a life well-lived – and share them with others. Values are a part of who you are and sharing them with loved ones are the best gifts you can give. They don’t cost any money, they are always needed and well-received, and they work best when they are returned! Sharing your values is the truest form of giving, maximizing the impact from helping others (and yourself) to growing wealth.
Consider the following five gift ideas for that very special person:
LOVE: Love sees the good in everyone and it wants good things for them. It is therefore the basis for all the emotions you feel about yourself and others. Feeling loved has significant health benefits including reduced stress and improved longevity.
Gift Idea: Simple. Tell the people you love, that you love them. And tell them why! And tell them often!
COMPASSION: Compassion is what helps you overcome the impulse to judge others harshly or find fault with them. In the US, a recent survey by Pew Research indicated that 88% of people say the country is more divided than before the pandemic, versus about 60% in 17 other countries surveyed. Compassion and kindness are closely related and are about treating others the way you want to be treated.
Gift Idea: There is undoubtedly someone out there whose ideology you disagree with. Maybe it has led to a break in communication or worse. Think about the reasons why salvaging that relationship would improve both of your lives. Pick up the phone and explore ways to make it happen.
LISTENING: Listening is an investment of your time and energy in learning to see things from someone else’s perspective. It has a huge payback, as not only will you grow by learning, but it is the only way you can genuinely offer help to others. An adage goes, “Do not listen with the intent to reply, but with the intent to understand.”
Gift Idea: Listen to your children! Be patient. You probably have a “go-to” person in your life who became that person because they listened to you. You will create a similar bond, open lines of communication, build their self-esteem and maybe they will reciprocate and listen to you! You may be surprised that they can have great ideas.
GRATITUDE: Gratitude is best practiced every single day. When we appreciate others, they notice! Appreciation for others validates what they do. They feel better, try harder and are inclined to do the same for another person. It makes your day happier and has a positive impact on your ability to grow wealth. READ HERE
Gift Idea: Appreciate those who serve and help you every day. Whether it’s the cleaner in your home, the local cashier, your mailman, or those who help with trash and recycling. Encouragement is well-received (as is a monetary tip at the holidays).
FORGIVENESS: Forgiveness is about letting go of the anger and resentment towards those who have hurt or offended you. It acknowledges that people (including yourself) make mistakes, and that harboring a lifetime of ill will is an unnecessary burden. It does not mean forgetting or condoning the actions of others. But by giving the gift of mercy, generosity, and love, you receive the freedom to let go, which you certainly deserve.
Gift Idea: Forgive someone! It’s a sign that the person who wronged you means more than the wrong they did to you. Explain your feelings and set the expectation of having a positive relationship from now on. Even if it only allows you to let go of resentment or revenge, you will become a better person.
If you believe that real wealth is not measured by what you have but by who you are, then these gift-giving ideas will reward you each and every day for years to come.