Three Gifts I Wish for You this Holiday Season

This time of year, I find myself drawn to movies that are either lighthearted or have a message to offer. Maybe that’s why I’m drawn to movies like, The Ultimate Gift, starring James Garner and Oscar-nominated Abigail Breslin.

The story is about a young man (Jason Stevens) and the year-long journey he must undertake to earn an inheritance left to him by his great uncle. Jason ‘earns’ his inheritance through a series of gifts or challenges that his uncle leaves to him. Through the process Jason evolves from a belligerent, spoiled young man to the kind of person that we can all strive to be, with or without an inheritance.

There are twelve gifts in the book. Here are three gifts that I wish for all of you this holiday season.

1. The gift of work. Inflation seems to have overtaken the economic conversation these days. Yes, prices everywhere are up and rising. There is talk of a recession on the horizon. Many are complaining about jobs they dislike while some industries are laying off people. If you are gainfully employed, I challenge you to focus on all the great things that your job provides for you and your family. At a minimum this includes your income and likely includes many other perks like health insurance, a 401k plan and other types of employee benefits. Be thankful for the gift of work.
2. The gift of gratitude. Often when times are flush with funds and opportunity, we focus our energy on those things that we want rather than taking time to appreciate what we already have. Over the past few years, we have all experienced losses on some level. It’s easy to remain pessimistic and skeptical. This year, let go of all that. Instead, focus on what you do have to be grateful for: good health, a loving family, or a warm home. Be thankful and revel in gratitude.
3. The gift of laughter. In the words of Ella Wheeler Cox, “Laugh and the world laughs with you; Weep, and you weep alone; For the sad old earth must borrow its mirth; But has trouble enough of its own.” When times are tough you can do one of two things – laugh or cry. There is obviously a time and place for both but whenever possible choose laughter. Why? Because studies have shown that people who laugh have increased hormones that alleviate depression, enhance immunity, and reduce stress. Plus, it’s contagious – in a good way – so laugh, and feel free to spread it around!

The movie also focuses on these gifts: money, friends, learning, problems, family, dreams, giving, a day and love. Watch the movie to learn more about these gifts. Even better, come up with a list of your own!

Regina

Speaker. Coach. Consultant.

“Dream Big. Take Action. Make It Happen.”