What Does Your Gift Say?

Are you a gift-card person or do you like to know exactly what someone wants so you can get them the right thing? Do you spend time thinking about what your receiver might like, based on their personality and interests?

When the holidays hit, the gift-buying frenzy begins in earnest. Designated shopping days make people lose their minds over discounted products in high demand. In this culture that values material goods, Christmas sometimes seems like an excuse to buy something you need anyway.

This is a time when people of all cultures demonstrate different gifting philosophies-- some giving cash, some offering those little plastic rectangles that offer a shopping spree at your favorite retailer or eatery.

But, as we head into another giving season, it seems like a good time to ask: why do we give gifts?

For starters, it's expected, especially at this time of year.

I remember when I first started dating my husband, he brought me to his family's Christmas Eve celebration. To my surprise, there was a present for me under the tree.

When his aunt heard I was coming, she found something for me, and wrapped it up so I would have something to open. It was a small handbag—not really my style, but that wasn't the point.

The real gift was being included in the family tradition. To this day, it's one of the best things I've ever received.

When you stop and think about it, gift-giving is about recognizing someone and letting them know you acknowledge and appreciate them.

You can do this any number of ways, many at no cost whatsoever.

From original art to handwritten letters, date night coupons to home pampering sessions to house cleanings, there are many ways you can spend little more than your effort to treat someone for the holidays. These gifts are thoughtful and often the most meaningful to their recipient.

This time of year, it’s also special to give to those in need, volunteering at food banks and soup kitchens to be sure those with less can enjoy warmth and a delicious meal. Toy donations to organizations like Toys 4 Tots allow people of all income levels to give their kids something they might enjoy.

Giving gifts is not just for the receiver, but the giver enjoys perks too.

At Christmas morning, I usually end up with a small stockpile of gifts at the end because I’ve spent the whole time watching everyone else open presents, forgetting to open my own.

Turns out, giving—both presents and time—is great for your health. Among the benefits are lowered blood pressure, less stress, improved self esteem and the release of bio-chemicals that just make you feel darn good.

People who give generally live longer, too, so remember to give beyond the holiday season, to those who really need it.

Though I'll buy gifts this Christmas, I'll also try to remember why I'm giving. I hope each person on my list will receive the true spirit of my present—an acknowledgement that I love and treasure them for who they are.

Maybe I'll bake, write poems, or spend some extra time playing, laughing and snuggling. If I miss the mark with my purchases, I know the personal touches will more than make up for it.

I hope you, too, can remember the reason behind your gift-giving...and receiving. May you find joy in giving with an open heart and receiving with grace and gratitude.

This really is the gift of giving.

Have a beautiful holiday season, friends. XO