Gifting Trends of Time, Talent, and Treasure

Written By: Sandi MacCalla, Founder - LifeSkills Academy ~ 12/2/2024

With Christmas approaching, traditional gift-giving takes center stage. Store-bought presents have their charm, but there's a growing trend towards meaningful impact: the gifting of time, talent, and treasure. This year let's see how we may embrace this trend and add a special sparkle to your holiday season.

The Gift of Time
In our fast-paced lives, spending quality activities with loved ones creates far more valuable memories than any material item.

Top Idea: Family Game Night

A family game night can be a delightful way to spend time together. Here’s how:

1. Choose a Variety of Games suitable for all ages and preferences. Board games like Monopoly, Scrabble, or newer favorites like Codenames and Catan can be great choices.
2. Prepare Snacks: A variety of favorite snacks and drinks will keep everyone energized and engaged.
3. Set the Scene: Create a cozy atmosphere with comfortable seating and good lighting.

Resource: For a list of other top family games, check out Board Game Geek's 2024 Recommendations.

The Gift of Talent
Sharing your skills and talents is incredibly fulfilling both for you and the recipient. Whether it’s teaching a new skill or creating something unique, this gift shows thoughtfulness and effort.

Top Idea: DIY Craft Workshop

Hosting a DIY craft workshop is a fantastic way to share your talents and bond with family and friends.

1. Select a Craft that aligns with your skills and is suitable for your audience. Options could include candle-making, painting, woodworking, quilting, or knitting.
2. Gather Materials to ensure you have the necessary supplies and space for attendees to work. If you are conducting the workshop, consider purchasing items in bulk to save costs. Let those attending know how they can chip in.
3. Create an easy tutorial, if helpful: a step-by-step guide or video to assist participants in having a successful workshop.

Resource: For craft ideas and tutorials, visit DIY Network.

The Gift of Treasures
Thoughtful and personalized gifts can be treasures in their own right. Consider something that carries sentimental value or serves a meaningful purpose.

Top Idea: Memory Scrapbook

A memory scrapbook is a wonderful way to preserve cherished moments and create a tangible treasure.

1. Collect Photos and Mementos, ticket stubs, letters, and other memorabilia with special memories.
2. Choose a Theme such as a specific year, a memorable trip, or a loved one’s life stages.
3. Personalize It with small touches like handwritten notes, drawings, or decorations that reflect the recipient’s personality.

Resource: For scrapbooking tips and supplies, check out Scrapbook.com.

Family Participation: Volunteering Together
Volunteering as a family is one of the most rewarding ways to gift time, talent, and treasures. This helps and fosters community and gratitude.

Key Steps for Volunteering:

1. Choose a Cause that resonates with your family’s values, whether it’s helping at a local food bank, animal shelter, or community garden.
2. Schedule a Day that works for everyone and commit to spending it together in service.
3. Reflect and Share: Afterward, take time to share what you learned and enjoyed together.

Resource: For volunteer opportunities near you, visit Volunteer Match.

“It’s not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving.”
~Mother Teresa

Embracing the gift of time, talent, and treasures not only enriches the lives of those around us but also sparks a deeper sense of fulfillment and joy in us. This Christmas let’s create lasting memories and impacts.

Happy Holidays!

LifeSkills Academy features online classes in Etiquette/Social Intelligence, Financial Skills, and Adulting. Educators are business professionals who have proven success in the world of commerce. Join our website to receive class details, blogs, and useful life skills tips.

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