Most people you know probably need a little extra love this year, right?! That’s why this holiday season, we’re thinking outside-of-the-box when it comes to giving gifts. We’re focusing less on monetary items and more on making loved ones smile through thoughtful gestures. With loneliness at an all-time high, it’s the little, non-monetary things that mean the most right now. Lending a helping hand to someone in your neighborhood, checking in through phone calls, texts and emails, and going out of your way to do something thoughtful when it’s not expected make such a big difference. 

While giving physical gifts is kind and thoughtful, you can change someone’s life by giving in other ways that don’t have a price tag. We’re sharing ideas on how to spread the love through the new year to help start 2021 with hearts full.

7 gift ideas from the heart that only cost your time:

• Mail a love note. There’s something exciting and special about looking in the mailbox and receiving snail mail. Send a quick note to someone you haven’t been able to see this year. That person will remember the gesture and how you made him or her feel.

• Lend an ear. With loneliness at an all-time high, giving someone a call can really help turn his or her day around. Even a voicemail will easily make someone’s day.

• Share how you’re feeling. By expressing how you’ve handled this year and how you’re feeling about the holiday season, you give others space to share how they are feeling too. Those types of conversations go a long way with building connection and combating isolation.

• Give parents a break. Know parents that have been juggling work and homeschooling? Offer to watch their kids so that they can go on a date. Of course, that comes recommended with proper precautions for Covid-19.

• Pay a compliment a day. Know a healthcare worker who has been working the front lines of the pandemic? Know a parent who has juggled it all this year? Know a neighbor who hasn’t been able to see family this year? Acknowledge how people have risen above challenges and send one compliment daily.

• Offer your time and expertise. If you have a skill that would uplift another or help him or her get through a tough time, offer it as a gift. Life coaching, therapy, accounting, babysitting—even grocery shopping and running errands can be so helpful.

• Feed the soul. A home cooked meal nourishes the body and comforts the soul. Making soup? Freeze an extra quart as a gift. A large batch of lasagna, homemade pizza or enchiladas are easy to make and deliver with love. 

Simple gifts and acts of kindness go a long way, especially this year. Give one of these a whirl and notice how good it feels to help someone in need. 

If there’s anything we can do to make your holiday season brighter, don’t hesitate to reach out! You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, or you can send us an email at info@urbanmarketbags.com.