Writer Wednesday - Give a Priceless Gift to Yourself and Others

Hocus Pocus and All That 

By Maureen L. Bonatch 

Give a Priceless Gift to Yourself and Others 

The holidays also often mean a time of increased stress, too many obligations which can lead to a month—or more— of frustration. Perhaps now that the holidays are winding down it’s time to look beyond material gifts and give something that is priceless and can benefit ourselves as well as the beneficiary all year long.

Priceless Gifts to Give

More Patience- Before you get frustrated with the line you must wait in, or the crowds remember that we’re each dealing with our own stressors every day, and not just during the holidays. Holidays just happen to be able to bring out the worst in some people but there may be underlying reasons. This could be the first holiday season without a loved one, or perhaps someone is ill, or family is unable to be home due to finances or deployment. Don’t add to their frustration, or your own, by losing your patience.

A Compliment or a Smile - Just like negativity can spark a bad mood, smiles and being pleasant can be contagious. Give someone the gift of a compliment—it may be the only kind thing they hear today.

Forgiveness- This gift has the power to allow you to find more joy in the holiday season and all year long.

What to Return

Resentment, Anger & Grudges – Often the things we want the least, that hurt us the most, are the hardest to let go. These feelings only hurt ourselves and can destroy relationships. Don’t wait until it’s too late to return these so you can gain the gift of peace.

Give a Helping Hand

Write Reviews- You’re heard many times before how much authors value reviews, but it’s not just authors, writing a review for any product benefits you, too. If you’re like me, you do much of your shopping online, or you at least do a little online research before you decide what to buy.

Reviews for any product help make decisions on what’s a good gift, or one that wouldn’t meet your expectations. If we all take the time to review most of the products we buy, it saves us all time in choosing quality, appropriate gifts for our loved ones—and ourselves.

The Gift of Time

Offer a helping hand- Helping a loved one or friend with their home, shopping, or just lending an ear can be the greatest gift.

Just say no- Give yourself the gift of extra time by eliminating tasks, events and obligations this year that no longer bring you joy.

© 2023 Maureen Bonatch All Rights Reserved 

Maureen Bonatch believes music can be paired with every mood, laughter is contagious, and caffeine and wine are essential for survival. When she’s not doing the bidding of a feisty Shih Tzu, she’s a mom to twin daughters, exploring the beautiful woods of PA with her hubby and dancing as much as possible. She writes paranormal cozy mysteries as M.L. Bonatch, paranormal romance and other genres as Maureen Bonatch, and her latest urban fantasy will be as Amber Wrath. http://www.maureenbonatch.com/