By: Amy Maricle

Hello You!

This last week of the challenge, (plus a couple of days) I thought we could focus on something that really speaks to the spirit of the season: Giving.

When we talk about self-care, we focus a lot on needing to be sure that you give to yourself, and it is essential. The key is balance, of course.  Some people give way too much to others, and very little to themselves, while with others it’s the opposite. Neither is fulfilling.

So what does “giving,” or “generosity” mean to you, in your life? Both as a recipient and a giver?

 

Love “Languages”

Have you ever heard of that book, The Five Love Languages? I never read it, but I came across the concept a long time ago and it has always resonated for me and my clients. (Click the hyperlink to learn more from Gary Chapman’s website.)

The idea is that we show our love and affection in different ways. This framework breaks it into 5 categories:

words of affirmation,

quality time,

physical touch,

acts of service, and

giving gifts.

You may fall into several camps, or even all, but most of us tend to lean more heavily on one or two.

 

Balancing What You Give to Others and Yourself

Think about yourself, your family, partner, and close friends.  What are their categories? This framework can be an interesting way to look at how we “give” and “receive.”

I tend to be heavy on words of affirmation.  (Shocking, I know.) I am always humbled by the people in my life who so naturally do service for others. Over the years, I have made an active effort to add service into my giving repertoire. Because I have to put some conscious thought into it, doing service for others often feels really good.

Isn’t that amazing? I have always been fascinated by the fact that we humans are hard wired to enjoy helping each other. It feels good to give. This is certainly not a mistake. Things go awry only when we forget to find balance.

 

So how are you giving this holiday season, to yourself and others? What languages of love do you use? Comment below or show us on Instagram!

 

Join the Holiday Self-Care Challenge on Instagram!

This week’s theme is: GIVING

Let’s see how you see “giving.” Make sure you share on Instagram using #holidayselfcare for your chance to win Art Journaling 101 Online!

Cheers,

Amy

Official Holiday Self-Care Challenge Rules:

You must be 14 or older to enter. You can live anywhere in the world, and be any shape, size, gender, color, religion, etc. The winner will be chosen at random from amongst all challenge entries. Each day you post a picture to Instagram during the month of December is a chance to win. This challenge is no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with, Instagram. Please only post child-friendly content and obtain permission when including images of people. Inappropriate images and content will not be considered for entry. *Remember too to be respectful of others. Please get a person’s permission before taking their picture and posting it on the web. Thank you!

For more detailed information about the challenge, click here.