The holidays are a time of giving and receiving gifts. The question most often asked of people is “What did you get?” Much less frequently asked is “What did you give?”

Invariably, the inquiries concern material gifts. Purchasing gifts can certainly be thoughtful and a wonderful gesture, especially when it’s backed up by actions.

However, the most valuable presents are those that aren’t sold in stores. When giving love, time, help to someone in need, aid to another in solving a problem or overcoming an obstacle, something priceless is given.

The true spirit of the holidays is giving. When you give, you receive. You can get anything in life you want by helping enough others get what they want, but only if you give without expecting anything in return. The impact of giving isn’t limited to just the holiday season; it’s something that has value all year.

The power of giving is often underestimated. When giving unconditionally, you don’t just impact the recipient; you start a chain reaction. By brightening the life of one person, you also affect all those whom they then touch.

No gesture of giving or kindness is too small. Holding the door open at a store, helping someone carry groceries to their car, letting another car in front of you, saying “please” and “thank you,” and saying “hello” to a stranger on the sidewalk are some of the many things you can do daily.

For family and friends, time is one of the most precious gifts that can be offered. Are you there for others when they need you? Do you offer a hand without being asked? Do you help out when asked?

Too often people get caught up in their own desires, losing sight of the needs of others. A person who tries to get through life by looking out for himself first is invariably frustrated. Often this person views life as a competition to determine who can accumulate the most.

Those who are concerned for the well-being of others are happier, more content and more satisfied. By giving without expecting, they in turn receive the things they need.

If you don’t treat others well, buying a gift won’t compensate for your behavior. The recipient might like what you give them but it won’t make up for your actions. You can’t bribe someone to forgive the way you treat them.

The best gift you can receive is the joy of making someone else happy. Being unselfish is a wonderful way to live.

Make giving a daily routine. Every day is a good day to do something nice.

This article has been provided courtesy of Bryan Golden at DareToLiveWithoutLimits.com.