The world is a different place since COVID-19 hit. The pandemic has made a lot of people re-evaluate what’s important in their life, be that career, the people they associate with, or even how they feel about material things. Faced with the stark reminder that life can sometimes be too short, it’s only natural to feel pensive at this time of year. If your priorities have shifted and you’re looking for some more thoughtful and less material gift ideas this year, here’s what the team at Beaumont Resilience Training suggest you might want to consider.
Companionship
If your friend or loved one lives on their own or is unable to make it back home this Christmas, why not offer your company? Instead of stressing out about getting them the perfect gift, simply offer your presence. Whether it’s via video chat or face to face, they’ll appreciate it more than any gift.
Checking in
Christmas can be a tough time of year for some, and even more so during these difficult times. By now we are all accustomed to small talk and pleasantries, but when is the last time you sat down and had a real heart to heart with your friend or loved one? As the year comes to a close, many use it as a time to reflect. Take some time to really talk about how you and your loved ones are feeling. Take stock, think about what you want to bring into the New Year with you and what you want to leave behind. It will be a fantastic opportunity to make a completely new beginning for 2022.
Random Acts of Kindness
If you’re fortunate enough to have already bought your gifts, then why not take a moment to think of those who are less fortunate than yourself and dedicate some time to them? It doesn’t take a lot of effort; simply donating to a food bank, giving a small sum of money to a charity or volunteering to help in the local community are some of the best gifts you can give.
Praise one another
Whatever has happened over the course of the pandemic, you have made it this far and that’s worth celebrating. Whether we realise it or not, these experiences build Resilience and that’s something valuable that you can’t buy in any store! If you’re looking for a different type of gift for someone and you think they would benefit from building their Resilience, it may be worth giving them the gift of an online Resilience course. Instead of feeling stressed out by daily life in 2022, they’ll be equipped with the coping strategies needed to excel in life no matter what obstacles come their way. It’s also a great way to encourage somebody to get out of their comfort zone and grow in confidence, something many of us could do with after everything we’ve been through during the last few years!