When do we feel like we have enough? All of our cupboards, closets, dressers, garages, etc are full. Some of us need to rent extra space to store our things. This season tends to bring out the need to get more stuff to give to others. When do we reach a point where we feel like we have enough?
This feeling of lack may be more far reaching that we realize. We work long hours to buy more stuff (bigger houses, more clothes, the latest mobile phone) yet what are we sacrificing? Time with our loved ones? Our health? Our happiness?
During this time of year we buy presents for others, remembering the people who have helped us over the year, for example our hairdressers and mail carriers. We have to find the perfect item for our friends and loved ones or give gift cards so they can find their own perfect gift. It is a time to show appreciation and gratitude for the relationships we share throughout the year. Such a lovely tradition. At the risk of sounding like a killjoy, has it gotten out of control? Do we work those long hours to earn more money to buy for our loved ones when all they really want is to see our smiling face more often? It is tricky balance, that is sure.
Over the coming 2016 year, you and your family may want to talk about the values that you find most important. If those values are not in alignment with what you are doing maybe you can change them. One of your values may be that you find your family very important yet you are always gone doing different activities. You rarely spend time together. Perhaps you could try having a family “date night” and just do something together like eating dinner (without watching the television), playing board games, going bowling, etc. Another value may be that you love your friendships yet take for granted that your friends know. You could send them a note (US Post or electronically) telling them that you appreciate them. Both of these activities have the added benefit of making all parties involved happier.
Perhaps this article may start you thinking about how you prioritize your energy (time and money), how many things you have that you may not need, and subtle ways to adjust so you are acting more in alignment with your values. Over time, little changes add up to big changes. Going slow tends to be less painful.
Tell us how you have made some changes in your life to practice your values.