Giving Presence this Holiday Season
For the first day in months, the highs will not reach the 80s here in Georgia. That can only mean one thing, the holiday season is FINALLY here. Thanksgiving is just a few weeks ago and Christmas will quickly follow. It’s my favorite time of year, but for many I know it can also be a stressful time.
Back in February I joined SunTrust in their OnUp movement and shared tips for how we save money and alleviate financial stress as we raise a family on one income. And these strategies are so important this time of year. One of the things I wrote about was spending more time focusing on the moments that matter with my family and not on financial stress. Along with SunTrust I believe the most meaningful gift you can give your loved ones (and yourself) this holiday season, and any time really, isn’t a present you buy – it’s presence in every meaningful moment. And SunTrust can be your Holiday Hub.
Thinking back on the years I have so many wonderful holiday memories. From making a gingerbread house in the pediatric unit of the hospital with my parents after having my tonsils out to wrapping Christmas presents with my grandmother and making the most elaborate bows. The occasional, but oh so magical snowflakes found in the south to making Christmas cookies with my sister and using tweezers to make sure each sprinkle was in just the right spot! So many memories made over the years. And one thing that all these memories have in common is that none of them include presents….but presence.
Memories are made with those around you. So stop worrying about buying the perfect Christmas gift and start thinking about how you will be present with your loved ones and others you meet this holiday season. Being present means spending the evening with your children checking out all of the holiday lights in your neighborhood. Or, volunteering at your local soup kitchen, taking the day off for a fun adventure with grandparents, or providing coffee and donuts at your next team meeting before everyone’s out on vacation.
If you are looking for more ideas download the SunTrust Holiday Planning Guide. In this holiday planning guide, you’ll find tips for getting organized and making a plan for holiday spending so you can feel confident in your ability to stay on track with your budget. You’ll see how other Americans are shopping, traveling, celebrating and giving in ways that make the holidays cost less, but mean more.
Or, checkout this list of ways to spread the light this holiday season. (pdf here)
The holiday season let’s focus on what really matters – each other! Don’t let the stress of financial matters get in the way. Instead make small changes that make a big difference and don’t forget to be present this holiday season.
At SunTrust Bank their purpose is lighting the way to financial well-being. When you feel confident about your money, you can save for your goals and spend knowingly on what matters most to you.
The onUp movement was created to guide millions of people one step at a time towards a more financially confident life without ever losing sight of the moments that matter along the way.
Join the growing number of people transforming their stress into positive motivation to move onUp.
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of SunTrust. The opinions and text are all mine.
