E= Engage Your Gifts: Why Strengths Matter More Than Ever

As the holidays approach, let’s pause and focus on an extraordinary gift: You!!! Yes, you are a gift to the world. Your unique strengths, talents, and qualities make you one-of-a-kind, and recognizing and celebrating that can create a powerful shift in how you experience this season.

At a time when 79% of people globally prioritize wellness, but many still struggle to truly feel fulfilled, it’s clear that the best gift you can give yourself is the gift of engaging your strengths and celebrating who you are.

You Are the Gift

Getting caught up in the whirlwind of holiday preparations is easy by checking off lists, meeting expectations, and ensuring everyone else’s joy. But what if there was another way to approach the holiday season??? What if, this year, you made yourself the first gift of the season? What if this year you took the time to unwrap the gift of you first by taking the time to unwrap the unique strengths that make you, you?

Now, before you roll your eyes and raise your eyebrows, I want you to know that engaging your strengths is not about adding more to your never-ending to-do list. It’s about creating a moment of connection with yourself, celebrating your talents, and recognizing the value you bring to the world. It’s about honoring you.

Gift Yourself by Engaging Your Strengths and Celebrating You

Here are a few ways to shift from doing to being—to celebrate yourself and create moments of joy this holiday season:

1. Write Yourself the First Holiday Card

Take a moment to express gratitude to yourself. Write a note or send yourself an e-card. Take the first card, your favorite one, out of that box and send it to you. Gift yourself the opportunity to celebrate your unique strengths and acknowledge the challenges you’ve overcome this year. What makes you proud of yourself? What do you appreciate most about who you are? Place this card somewhere where you can reflect on or add to it throughout the holiday season.

3. Do Something Just for You

Tap into a strength that brings you joy and fulfillment. For example:

• If creativity lights you up, spend time crafting, painting, or writing for fun.
• If you love music, put on your favorite playlist and let yourself dance or relax.
• If connection is your superpower, spend a quiet moment journaling about what inspires you or call a friend who uplifts your spirit.

4. Create a Moment of Stillness

Step away from the holiday hustle and bustle to enjoy a mindful moment. Reflect on your accomplishments, growth, and how you’ve brought your strengths to life this year. Wrap your arms around yourself and give yourself a squeeze, gifting yourself a hug and love between you and you. 😊 When was the last time you hugged yourself??? In this moment of stillness, you can celebrate that this is a present for you.

5. Celebrate You

Plan a mini-celebration in your honor—light a candle, toast to yourself, or set aside a special treat. This isn’t about indulgence; it’s about acknowledgment. You’ve shown up, faced challenges, and made a difference. That deserves celebration. A moment and celebration where you can say to yourself Yeah, Me!!!! I am AWESOME!!!!

Why This Matters

When you take the time to gift yourself moments of recognition, care, and joy, you’re honoring your well-being and setting the tone for the rest of the season. By filling your own cup first, you’ll have more energy and positivity to share with others.

Engaging your strengths and celebrating yourself isn’t just an act of self-care; it’s a reminder of the gift you are to the world. Your presence, unique qualities, and ability to bring your strengths to life make this season truly magical.

Ready to Unwrap Your Awesome?

This holiday season, let’s start with you. Gift yourself the time, care, and celebration you deserve. You are the season’s first and most important gift—unwrap yourself with gratitude, joy, and love. Because when you honor the gift of you, you inspire others to do the same.

Let’s make this season truly special by celebrating who you are. So, what’s the first gift you’ll give yourself today?