No matter how much money you have (or don’t have) you can make hopes and dreams come true this Holiday Season. You can give gifts that bring smiles to the faces of loved ones and strangers alike.
Of course I’m not speaking of the gifts that you may find jotted on a Christmas list, wrapped in a box, or sitting under the tree. Christmas, and any other day, has a lot more meaning when you remember to give the intangible gifts that are seldom requested and constantly desired.
In case you’re not certain where to start, I have a few suggestions for spreading a little holiday cheer. And hopefully, you’ll find it in your heart to disperse these free gifts all throughout the year.
Appreciation and Gratitude
A hand written card or letter of appreciation is one of the best free gifts you could ever give. In our busy society, it is easy to take others for granted, forgetting to stop and express our gratitude.
Remember to slow down and acknowledge everyone who contributes to your life. From the person who teaches your children to the person who picks up your trash, you’re surrounded by people who help you every single day.
It only takes a few seconds to offer a sincere “thank you” to those who deserve it. Nothing is more fulfilling than to know you are appreciated.
Genuine Compliments
When given sincerely, a compliment is a gift that brings joy and big smiles. Catch your children doing something good and issue a raving compliment on their behavior. If you notice someone who is wearing a color that looks great on them, don’t shy away from mentioning it. This should feel great for both you (the compliment-giver) and the person being complimented.
The more time you spend looking for circumstances worth complimenting, the less you will attract reasons to gripe and complain.
Positive Thinking and Optimism
Every situation won’t appear rosy and joyful, but you’ll be a hero in your own right when you turn a frown upside down.
If a co-worker is struggling with a tough project, praise their efforts and diligence. Remind them of the advancements that they’ve made thus far, which will help them to shift their awareness to a more positive perspective .
If someone is unhappy with a Christmas gift, find an encouraging way to bring their attention to the many gifts that they forget to appreciate each day.
A positive outlook may be just what it takes to bring a little holiday cheer back into someone’s life.
Time and Attention
For people who are plagued by loneliness, the best present you can give is your presence. Remember those who have lost a spouse, parent, or other loved one. Also remember those who are elderly or ill. In most cases, they don’t want a beautifully wrapped Christmas gift dropped off to them. Honor them with your time, attention, patience, and concern. Sit down to talk with them or, better yet, to listen to them.
These gifts don’t have price tags, but their worth is astounding.
Yes, brand new diamond rings, wool coats, and media gadgets under the Christmas tree make a statement. They say “I spent money on you” or “I put myself in debt to make you happy.” However, the smallest things speak a different language and leave a more lasting impact.
Instead of, or in addition to, giving gifts of material value, give to others in ways that speak to the deepest parts of their being. Give gifts that cannot be easily lost, damaged, forgotten, or replaced by the next best model.
Happy Holidays!!!!
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Thanks for it.