The story hit the news in full force. A Walmart employee was trampled to death as savings-hungry shoppers shoved their way into the store on Black Friday. To make matters worse, the shoppers became quite upset when the police had to close the store as it became a crime scene. Were the deals worth stealing this man’s life? Was it so worth it to get a toy for their children that these shoppers actually traded a man’s life for those worthless items? What is his family going to do for Christmas?
While you may not have been among those shoppers who trampled a man to death, you may still be one of those business owners who is so cutthroat for your company that you have lost sight of the people you are serving. Like these shoppers, you may have lost sight of the people around you in anticipation of earning a big bonus. The holidays are a great time to stop, take a step back, and give to those in need. Rather than seeing dollars and cents, take the time to really notice your clients, your community, and – most importantly – your friends and family.
1. Give to your clients this year. You are in business thanks to your customers. Without them, you wouldn’t have two cents to rub together! Take this opportunity to thank them – with no thought of how it will benefit you and your company. Just give for the sake of giving!
2. Help out in the community. You picked the location of your business carefully because you wanted a good place to earn money. But look around. It’s not just a place to hang your “Open” sign; it’s a community. Join your neighbors by helping in a soup kitchen, collecting presents for Toys for Tots, or raising money for an annual fundraiser.
3. Take time to spend with your family and friends. Remember who has supported you from the time you started your business to where you have your business now. They deserve a lot of attention from you, so close the business doors and open the door to your home. Invite people to your house for a Christmas party; participate in neighborhood caroling; or take your family for a ride to see all of the houses lit up for Christmas.
This holiday season, let’s not lose our focus! Keep the Christmas spirit alive by thinking of what you can do for others rather than for yourself. Gifts are optional, but time and love are required.





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