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Give as a gift

Often during the holidays people become more wrapped up in buying gifts instead of focusing on spending time with close friends and family. This holiday, keep in mind that there is more to giving than pulling money out of your pocket. Start the transformation by avoiding the convenience of a quick purchase, and instead, take the time you would spend shopping, crafting a gift yourself by writing a letter, making your own cards or baking. Homemade gifts appear to be more heartfelt and often leave a long lasting impression. "Memories aren't disposable and it's those close, intimate moments shared with the people we love that will have a lasting place in our hearts," says Tim Sanchez, senior marketing and communications director for the New American Dream Center. Shift your mindset to understanding that "the simplest thing everyone can give is the gift of a commitment to a value," says George Myers, volunteer coordinator at CharityFocus.org. If you value family, make a regular habit of dedicating quality time together by cooking dinner or having a game night, says Sanchez. If your health is important, spend time on your well-being by practicing meditation or committing to exercising at least three times a week. Myers says to remember that "Giving money has a price. Giving time is priceless." www.newdream.org and www.charityfocus.org