4 ways to focus on what’s important this holiday season

(BPT) - In the midst of the busyness and bustle of the holiday season, it’s easy to lose sight of the important things in life, like spending time with those you love and making a difference in the lives of others. This year, take a step back and consider these four suggestions from Thrivent Financial to help you celebrate and appreciate what really matters:

1. Be grateful

The holiday season begins with Thanksgiving, so remember to carry your feelings of gratitude throughout the following weeks. It may not always be easy to practice being grateful in the midst of holiday stress, but doing so has seemingly endless benefits – from raising self-awareness to allowing people to truly feel fulfilled in their lives. Additionally, gratitude can help you balance gift demands by taking inventory on what you’re thankful for – making you less likely to give in to the temptation to overspend. Carry that attitude of Thanksgiving through the rest of the holidays.

2. Be generous

As you shop for gifts for your loved ones, consider other ways you can be generous this holiday season. That doesn’t necessarily mean just giving financial gifts; volunteering your time, either on your own or together with family and friends, is a great way to help your faith community, local nonprofits, or families in need. Believe it or not, you may walk away from the event feeling like you received more than you gave! Generosity is a simple way to maintain focus on what’s important.

3. Practice healthy money habits

During the holidays, you’re bombarded by messages telling you that the latest and greatest consumer goods will bring you immense happiness. And while you might find enjoyment in the latest gadget, it may be overshadowed by disappointment if you make poor money choices to buy it. Spending money you don’t have can create unnecessary stresses during a time of year that should be joyful. Thrivent suggests making gift purchases you can afford and avoiding unhealthy debt to buy things you don’t need.

4. Give the gift of time

This holiday season, take notice of how you spend your time and then reflect on it to help find out what truly makes you happy. If you find yourself only showing your affection through material gifts, consider giving the gift of quality time. You could even spend time making a difference in the lives of others by volunteering your time or talent. Living intentionally can repay in dividends in terms of fulfillment and contentment with life.

Making wise decisions with money this holiday season will help you minimize stress and keep what’s important – people – at the top of your list. Take the time to reflect on your values, carry your gratitude through the season, be generous and spend time with those you love this holiday season.