Mariah Carey’s “All I want for Christmas is in full rotation, shoppers cautiously look for gift ideas while trying to make some sense of this past year. 2020 has been filled with so much loss: of loved ones, jobs and a general sense of normalcy. The pandemic has drastically changed holiday traditions for so many families but it is also a chance for families to create new family traditions and really focus on the meaning of Christmas. Some may overcompensate with physical gifts but consider G.I.F.T.S when looking for that something special and beyond another trinket.

Generosity: Goes beyond an abundance of gifts. Show your generosity with your time; money to causes that are important to you. Be generous with your knowledge; Share your expertise via social media or a master class.

Invest: Investments goes beyond stocks and bonds. It can look like moments of improvement such as reading books, taking classes or jumping at unique opportunities. Invest more in yourself.

Free: It is true, the best things in life are free: being Kind, being respectful, showing up, encouragement, forgiveness, and understanding are all things that are free. They are often the best gifts you can give and receive.

Time: Is a weird concept this year. 2020 has stood still and sped up all at the same time. It has made many of us reflect and make important changes. Giving your time to encourage, teach, pray or listen can be the most beautiful gift. Your projects, relationships, goals all require time and learning to manage it can be life changing.

Support: Is encouraging your friend’s business and not asking for a discount. Support is showing up and being the loudest cheerleader. It is providing help in the form that is most needed; it is being honest and providing guidence.

The world is trying to maintain all the holiday norms with window displays, Christmas music and holiday treats but we’re quickly reminded that 2020 has been anything but normal…shopping trips require masks even if they’re printed with blinged out snowflakes and candy canes to reflect the season. Stores operate with limited capacity. We all appreciate opening a present on Christmas day but we all need a bit more…we all could use a form of G.I.F.TS.