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Written by Karen D. Swim
“I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.”
–Maya Angelou
The month of December often moves at a frenzied pace as we close out the year in our work and personal life while simultaneously planning and participating in holiday festivities. It is also a season earmarked by giving, so it seems appropriate to choose giving as this month’s theme. This month we will explore:
- Giving to self with gifts that nurture and replenish
- Giving of self in life, and business with time, ideas, inspiration and attitude
- Cause related giving and holiday traditions
- The special non-monetary gifts of the season
- …and more.
In this month of celebration, many feel burdened by giving. Financial and time pressures make it a time of stress and tension rather than liberating freedom. Combined with the real or imagined pressures of giving the “right” gifts to family members, friends and colleagues can have you decking the halls with prozac instead of holly.
John D. Rockefeller, Jr. famously said, “Think of giving not as a duty but as a privilege.” The liberation of giving comes when gifts are given lovingly and well. Ditch your “musts” and “shoulds” and give because you can and want to. This season should not feel like one long obligation. Do not be shy about discussing gift giving with family or colleagues.
Many are struggling with tighter budgets this year and would welcome the opportunity to participate in the season without guilt. Start fun new family traditions that are less financial pressure for everyone such as baking together, making handmade gifts, or trash bag Santa (buy gifts from $1 discount stores and place them in a bag).
Gather your colleagues at work and discuss holiday gift giving. Agree to remove the pressure of gift giving by doing something for others. Suggest raising money for a local charity, sponsoring a toy drive or blood drive or volunteering in lieu of gifts to one another.
Presents are wonderful but the true memories of the season are laughter, love and friendship. Keep that in mind this month and reclaim the joy of the season.
I am looking forward to this month and the joy of giving and sharing with you. Stay tuned also for a special announcement about a BIG celebration. No peeking, all will be revealed in time. 🙂
Live well and laugh often!
Karen