It is December 1st and the first snow has fallen! So far, Black Friday is behind us and Cyber Monday too. Hopefully, you picked up an outstanding bargain, if not, never fear. Sometimes the greatest gifts are the ones that come from the heart.
Instead of getting wrapped up in shopping (excuse the pun) for gifts this year, think about giving your time instead. Who needs your help, your time, your love, your attention? Give generously of yourself. Make this Christmas or holiday "other-centric".
A picture is worth a thousand words. Photos,in frames or albums, make the most meaningful gifts. Does your family have old movies or slides? Convert them into a usable format for all to enjoy.
Write a memoir of your favorite memory and box it up with a nice ribbon to give to someone who will cherish it.
Send Christmas cards and write a personal message inside each one. This year, include college friends, distant relatives and others you have lost contact with.
Food cupboards and kitchens need volunteers to help distribute food.
There are thousands of non-profit organizations that are struggling financially this year, ask how you can help one that is important to you. Don't over-commit yourself.
As you scurry around these next 24 days, consider every moment outside of your house an opportunity to meet new people. Be inquisitive. Be "other-centric". Forget about your frustrating job search and focus on learning about other people.
Enjoy this season of giving. Savor each moment, each experience. Sometimes the most wonderful things happen when we don't expect them!
Hannah Morgan speaks and writes about job search and career strategies. She founded CareerSherpa.net to educate professionals on how to maneuver through today’s job search process. Hannah was nominated as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Job Search and Careers and is a regular contributor to US News & World Report. She has been quoted by media outlets, including Forbes, USA Today, Money Magazine, Huffington Post, as well as many other publications. She is also author of The Infographic Resume and co-author of Social Networking for Business Success.
