Be Present...Don't Just Give Presents

The hustle and bustle of the season is upon us! I've lost track of how many stores I’ve bolted in and out of over the past two days.  To be honest, I have been spinning my wheels and not being very productive! The straw that broke the camel’s back was the mad dash to find a chocolate Advent calendar at the last minute yesterday. It would have been an epic mommy fail to not have an Advent calendar for my son! I was so focused on the task at hand that I left my list at home. As a result, I have had to retrace my steps in each store because I forgot half of what I needed.
 
Days like this will happen during this time of year.  It’s almost odd if people are NOT racing to stores, decorating their homes like a Pinterest photo, or checking off their lengthy to-do list.  But, is this how the holidays NEED to be?
 
While shopping yesterday, I listened to two 4-year-olds interact with their mother.  I thought it was so sweet how they asked questions about an item’s use, or if they could buy something. The mom patiently answered their questions. That was NOT my experience when my children were little.  Before going into a store, I would often say, “Quick in, quick out!” I don't know if I was trying to preempt their requests to buy everything, or if my stress level was mounting because of my lengthy holiday to-do lists.  In looking back, I can’t remember why I was always rushing from one thing to the next.  I don’t know who I was truly serving in those moments. Several years ago, I made the decision to jump off the treadmill and make sure I wasn’t missing key moments with those most important in my life.   For the most part, I haven’t looked back. Except for yesterday, of course.
 
So often, in this season of giving, we focus on materialism, that “stuff” on the list.  What if we changed the way we approach the holidays?  Be present, don’t just buy presents!  The gift of time and really engaging with others is truly priceless.
 
Four Ways to Be Present This Holiday Season:

• Turn off/Put down the electronics:  Too often, we are focused on social media or emails, and missing the conversations that take place around us.  Eliminate distractions and genuinely hold that time for others.

• Ask questions!  Avoid questions with one-word answers.  Inquire about what interests those around you. You may learn something new yourself. Truly listen before you respond.

• Clean up your to-do list!  Are the items on your list tasks you “should” do this time of the year?  Ask yourself if it aligns with what is best for you and your family.  Write the priorities in pen, and pencil-in the rest. 

• Make YOU a priority!  Incorporate time, no matter how small, into each day to take care of yourself.  A quiet moment alone, some deep breaths, or a walk around the park are sometimes just enough to recharge your batteries.

 
I challenge you this season to start each day giving gratitude, and setting your intention to be present for each person you encounter in your day!  Being present is one of the greatest gifts we can give each other.

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