What do you value? I guess it depends on what definition of value we’re talking about. Here are the main definitions of value brought to you by Google:
- the regard that something is held to deserve; the importance, worth, or usefulness of something.
- a person’s principles or standards of behavior; one’s judgment of what is important in life.
- estimate the monetary worth of (something).
- consider (someone or something) to be important or beneficial; have a high opinion of.
Most often, people think I’m talking about the monetary aspect due to my profession, but really what I’m most curious about is finding out what is important to individuals and families. Many times that question will catch people off guard. We get so busy and automated in life that we forget to reflect on why. It’s hugely important to know for ourselves because it allows us to operate with purpose instead of on autopilot.
I’m thinking about this because the Christmas hype has already started and to be completely transparent with you, it started at our home before Halloween ever ended. Thanks a lot, Hallmark Channel. Anyways, Christmas comes with a lot of baggage. Not only is it supposed to be the most wonderful time of year, you’re expected to go out and spend money like the world is going to end. The latter can lead to serious stress during and post-holidays, which impacts your relationships and saps productivity at work.
I challenge you this holiday season to talk(with your spouse, best friend, or family) about what you value and how you can have the best Christmas this year. I imagine that it will revolve more around making memories and less about buying the latest and greatest. Hopefully, this will reduce some of the pressure on your checking account and allows you to go into the new year with no additional debt to your name.
