Giving The Gift of Presence This Holiday Season

As the holidays approach, it’s easy to get swept up in the search for the perfect gift. The adverts, the shopping lists, the wrapping—it all becomes part of the seasonal rhythm. But have you ever wondered: what if the most meaningful gift you could give doesn’t come in a box? What if, instead of giving presents, the real magic lies in giving your presence?

We’ve been conditioned to equate the holidays with ‘doing’—shopping, cooking, planning, attending events. There’s always something that needs ticking off the list. But how often do we stop to reflect on whether this busyness is truly bringing joy? What might happen if, instead of rushing through the season, you chose to slow down? To be intentional with your time and your energy?

Imagine sitting with a loved one, giving them your full attention. No phones, no multitasking, no mental to-do lists pulling you elsewhere. What might you notice in them that you’ve overlooked before? What might they feel in that moment of undivided presence? Could that small act of slowing down be the most meaningful gift you give?

Connecting to the Spirit of the Season

The holidays are often described as a time for generosity, gratitude, and connection. But what does that truly mean? And are we really connecting, or are we simply performing rituals out of habit? This is an invitation to reflect on what the spirit of the season looks like to you—not the version sold to us through adverts or traditions, but the one that resonates deeply within.

For some, this might mean stepping away from external distractions and tuning inwards. How often do we rely on ‘spirits’—like alcohol—to make celebrations feel complete? Could letting go of this habit help you feel more connected, not only to those around you but to yourself? What might emerge in the stillness of a clear mind and an open heart?

When Being Present Isn’t Easy

Let’s be honest—being present isn’t always easy, especially during the holidays. Sometimes we find ourselves surrounded by people we don’t get along with, navigating tricky family dynamics or forced small talk. And yet, these moments often hold hidden opportunities for growth, compassion, and understanding.

Giving the gift of presence requires vulnerability. It’s not always easy to fully show up—to put down the phone, let go of distractions, and simply be. But in doing so, we open the door to a deeper kind of connection, one that goes beyond words or gestures. What might it feel like to bring this kind of attention into your relationships? Could it strengthen bonds? Heal old wounds? Allow for something new to emerge?

Presence is not about perfection. It’s not about orchestrating the ideal family moment or creating the picture-perfect holiday scene. It’s about being real, being human, and offering the truth of who you are in the moment. When we do this, we give others permission to do the same.

A New Kind of Gift

As you move through this holiday season, consider this: what would it look like to give the gift of presence? Not just to others, but to yourself. What might change if you carved out moments to sit quietly, to reflect, or to savour the small joys around you? Could this be the key to rediscovering the magic of the season?

This isn’t about rejecting tradition or material gifts—they have their place. But perhaps it’s about balancing them with something deeper. A hug that lasts a little longer. A conversation where you truly listen. A walk-through nature, hand-in-hand with someone you love.

What Could This Mean for You?

So, as we come to the end of the year, I invite you to pause and ask yourself:

I wonder what opportunities will show up for you, simply by showing up fully.

PLUS, whenever you’re ready, there are 2 ways we can work together:

1. Want to learn to lean into the art of Quiet Influence? Join me at the next intensive.
2. Sign up for one of our current courses at ASHC and get taught by my team of advisors and me. All our courses are internationally and nationally industry-approved and will equip you with all the tools to open up your own professional private practice.
3. Need help with standing in your power as a woman in leadership? Apply for one of only three spots as my private client.

REFERENCES:

• Catalyst. (2020). Why diversity and inclusion matter: Financial performance. https://www.catalyst.org/research/why-diversity-and-inclusion-matter/
• European Institute for Gender Equality. (2021). Gender equality index 2021: Sweden. https://eige.europa.eu/gender-equality-index/2021/country/SE
• Forbes. (2020). Why women don’t always support other women (And how to fix it). https://www.forbes.com/sites/ellevate/2020/02/10/why-women-dont-always-support-other-women-and-how-to-fix-it
• Harvard Business Review. (2019). Research: Women score higher than men in most leadership skills. https://hbr.org/2019/06/research-women-score-higher-than-men-in-most-leadership-skills
• McKinsey & Company. (2020). Women in the workplace 2020. https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/diversity-and-inclusion/women-in-the-workplace
• Victoria State Government. (n.d.). Gender inequality affects everyone. https://www.vic.gov.au/gender-inequality-affects-everyone
• Workplace Gender Equality Agency. (2022). Australia’s gender equality scorecard. https://www.wgea.gov.au/publications/australias-gender-equality-scorecard

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