People First this Holiday Season

Here’s my simple holiday wish for each and every one of you: I hope that you are able to truly enjoy the holidays.  

Yet we all know that can be a lot easier said than done in a world where Black Friday and Cyber Monday exist and there’s a gnawing message/pressure at every turn to spend, spend, spend. 

I hope you can find your way to a more meaningful and enjoyable holiday season. I have a few tips: 

People First. Then Money. Then Things. 

You know that has been my mantra for years. It resonates ever-louder right now, when money and (buying) things seem to take center stage. Don’t get fooled.  Focus on your relationships.  What you can give of yourself to those you love is what matters. That does not require one penny. Your love, your time, your friendship, your empathy and compassion, is what enriches all your relationships. 

Know that When We Feel Less Than, We Spend More Than 

Money is so often a dangerous tool we use when we aren’t feeling great about ourselves. And that can extend to our gift-giving. Please don’t feel that you must spend more to impress someone, or to “keep up” with someone else who may have more money. Stand in your truth. Not anyone else’s truth. And honor your truth. That means never spending a penny more than you can honestly afford. 

Know the Secret of Generosity 

For a gift to be truly generous it must be as generous for the giver as well as the recipient. Any gift that you buy with a credit card that you will not be able to pay off in full is in no way generous to you.  

Focus on What You Have 

When you live your life from a place of gratitude for what you have, rather than focusing on what you don’t have, you open yourself to being so much more. Happiness never flows from negativity. Give yourself the gift of gratitude this holiday season. It will change your life, forever.