| Hi Friend,
As you celebrate holidays, you may find stress, anxiety, fear, and chaos mixed in with the twinkly lights and love.
That's unfortunately "normal" in today's world, and it can feel overwhelming and put a damper on your holiday spirit.
Here's a way to ensure your gifts (store-bought or not), are truly making the recipient feel loved and appreciated.
Since there are 5 different love languages, you want to be sure your people WANT the type of gift you are giving them. Here's how...
Think about your people and consider giving each of them a gift that aligns with THEIR love language, not yours. ♥
Here are the 5 love languages:
- Words of affirmation
- Gifts
- Acts of Service
- Quality Time
- Physical Touch
That means even if you spend money to buy something for someone, gifts may not be their preferred way to receive love.
They may find quality time with you during a hike or walk, or bench-sit more valuable than a purchased gift.
They may love to be told, or receive a handwritten note, of three things you appreciate about them.
Some may feel most loved when you to do something for them or help them do something.
Maybe a heartfelt hug or kiss on the cheek means more to them than any store-bought gift ever could!
Personally, I am not a gift person at all. I prefer words of affirmation and quality time. In fact, I can stress out a bit when I need to give a gift to a "gift person." LOL
I used this as a bonus tip when I was speaking on stress reduction to a large group at the power company here in San Diego.
The "Aha! moments" in the eyes of men and women in my audience were obvious and fun to watch.
Some had been tirelessly doing, doing, doing and could have connected on a deeper level with a simple sticky note saying "I appreciate you."
Others had given up because they had no clue how to please their spouse.
I remember how excited some of the men were when I said that instead of buying flowers, simply taking the trash out could be their ticket to a deeper connection. :)
All of this has to do with getting to know each other. And getting to know YOURSELF.
- Remember, the health of your relationship with yourself determines the health of all of your other relationships.
What is YOUR love language, Friend? What trips your trigger, floats your boat, warms your tootsies, gets you purring?
Share with people how YOU like to receive love and appreciation. It sets both of you up for success!
And give them love and appreciation in THEIR language, rather than your language. | 
