Greetings and blessings during this festive and soul-filled season.

This is a time of year where festivities and soulfulness are mixed with both blatant and subtle pressures related to gift-giving. My gift to you this season is a list of gift ideas that others at work and at home would love to receive from you - perhaps this list may serve as a reminder of the deeper spirit of gift-giving. Don't restrict this list to December or to people in your immediate circle.

1.       The Gift of Time. Just "being" with someone can be a great comfort to them.

2.       The Gift of a Good Example. Most people learn fundamental attitudes and behaviours by observing other people.

3.       The Gift of Acceptance. People begin to change when they know they are accepted for who they are – unmasked and authentic.

4.       The Gift of Seeing the Best in People. When we expect others to respond in a positive way, they usually come through for us.

5.       The Gift of Privacy. Too often we tend to 'smother' other people with questions and demands on their time.

6.       The Gift of Self-Esteem. Criticism stunts growth. Encouragement and recognition help a person to blossom.

7.       The Gift of Giving Up a Bad Habit. You display love for yourself and others when you give up activities that are hurtful or unhealthy.

8.       The Gift of Self-Disclosure. Bottling up feelings and resentments deprives the other person of truly knowing who you are.

9.       The Gift of Helping Someone Learn Something New. Helping someone learn something new is an important investment in their future happiness.

10.   The Gift of Really Listening. Few of us know how to listen in an effective manner -- give it a try for someone!

11.   The Gift of Fun. It's important when you can help those who are close to you find fun in ordinary small events.

  12.   The Gift of Letting Others Give to Us. When we let others give to us, and when we can accept their gifts in a gracious and mature manner, we may be giving them one of the most important gifts of all.    

Please feel free to re-gift this list!

Lewis-Daly & Associates - Workplace Wellness Solutions | www.lewisdaly.com