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Who or what represents the gifts in your life?

The holiday season is here. I’m the dad that likes to buy lots of gifts for my kids and my wife must rein me in from time to time. I always go a bit overboard but, I can’t help myself; I love buying my kids gifts. To tell the truth, as they have grown it is less fun because there are fewer toys involved. It is also important to our family to understand the reason for the season. We are Christian, so that is very important to us and the spirit of giving to others is what we celebrate. What I want to share this week, is all the gifts that surround us every day. What gifts are you receiving, that you may fail to recognize?

We all have our own circle of family and friends. For me, my wife and kids are the greatest gifts. My kids just make life more fun and the youngest knows when daddy needs a hug. My wife supports me when I need her most. We all need a person in our life, that is our soft place to land on hard days when we are struggling. This person probably offers advise and council when its needed. This individual is also the person that is comfortable enough to tell you the hard truths too. The value these people bring to our lives is so important. This is our safe person, our truest friend, and our greatest gift!

Our friends and co-workers offer us even more gifts. I am so impressed with my staff. They have always stepped up and helped where needed. They are passionate about their students and the work they do each day. It is important to surround yourself with people who know what needs to be done and take on so much for the organization’s success. If you are lucky, the people in your organizations are getting things done in stressful times and doing it all with a smile. Our people are gifts; I know mine are!

Our physical and mental health should also be considered gifts. Without our health we have lost the game of life. I am fortunate to be healthy and my family is all in good health. Stress is a huge factor as a leader and can be a silent killer if it is not managed correctly. Proper management of our stress should include time away from work and engaging in things we find enjoyable. Take time to enjoy the gift of good health by getting away from the office and seek something to release the stress.

Look at the situations we are involved in and see the gifts that are being provided to you. Our school system has just finished a new school and we are currently moving into it during the holiday break.  The opportunities provided to my staff, the students, and the community are so great. We have a lot to be thankful for! Looking at the things you are involved in and see the gifts you have.  Sometimes the simplest things that should be considered gifts, we miss entirely because we take them for granted. Look around, there are many things surrounding you that are gifts in your life. It just takes an intentional moment to see them!

         Who are the individuals in your life that you consider gifts?

         What gifts surround you at work or within your organization?

         Is your health a gift, if not what are you doing about it?

         How are you trying to be a gift to others?

Our lives are so blessed! We are surrounded by gifts in every aspect of our lives. Make sure you are taking time to acknowledge these gifts and trying to be a gift for those you care about. True gift giving is not always wrapping up a physical gift. Sometimes is just showing people we care and appreciate them. Thank you so much for taking the time to read this week’s post. You have given me a gift by doing this. Enjoy the holiday season finding the wonderful gifts in your life!

Steven C. Bucks-Leading Conversations