By Tori Goodrich

Once the shopping and wrapping and decorating and scheduling are done, my request is to now be present to the celebration. I know there is always more to do but it’s not worth it if you can’t stop and enjoy it. This time of year becomes so rushed that you have to actively choose to be present.

As you sit down to exchange gifts with co-workers, friends, and family, be aware of the gifts they have selected for you and honor the time they took to choose something that they thought you would enjoy. No gift is too small, for each comes with its own sentiment of the season.

Not all gifts need to cost money. The gift of your time can be precious to those whose lives are full of responsibilities, so just offering to babysit or walk the dog for them can mean so much.

This time of year can also be very lonely for people who have lost loved ones or are not able to celebrate with those they cherish.  Just sitting with them and listening can be better than anything wrapped in a bow.

So look up this holiday season and notice the decorations, really taste that wonderful holiday food, and remember you don’t need a selfie for a moment to matter.  Be present to your presents in whatever form they come.

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Tori Goodrich is a life, business and professional coach. She is also the co-owner of Gener8tional Connections helping companies work through the great divide. Contact Tori by telephone at 610.613.2127, on the web at www.victoriagoodrich.com, or via email at tgoodrich@vista.today.