EP #287 Why is it hard to be generous during the holidays?
The holidays are supposed to be "the most generous time of the year,"…
…but for ambitious professionals, they often feel rushed, performative, and exhausting.
Let’s get real about why even generous people struggle during December. I have four simple shifts I make now to build authentic generosity into my life and work all year. These things weren’t apart of my routines throughout the year until recently and they’ve helped me be more intentional during the holidays.
Stick around for a special invite to the new Feeling Generous email course (pre-launch now, starts Jan 6).
Have a generous new year. 🎉
What You'll Learn in Today's Episode:
Why holiday generosity feels harder for ambitious people who actually care
Shift #1: Time over things—how to be more present when you're overwhelmed
Shift #2: Don't try to "fix" 12 months of disconnection with one December gift
Shift #3: Embrace the reason for the season, not the grind of "finishing strong"
Shift #4: Practice gratitude publicly to build culture all year
How to make next December feel genuinely generous, not performative
Quotes Worth Sharing:
"Generosity isn't something you switch on in December. If it's only a season, it will always feel fake." - Bob DePasquale
"If you're overwhelmed, stop asking 'What should I buy?' and start asking 'How can I be more present?' Time is the most generous gift you have." - Bob DePasquale
"You can't fix twelve months of disconnection with one December gift. Generosity works best in small, consistent doses." - Bob DePasquale
“"Don't wait for December to send one big 'thank you' email. Practice gratitude publicly all year. That's how generous cultures are built." - Bob DePasquale
“Generosity is a mindset, not an event.” - Bob DePasquale
Resources from Today’s Episode:
My Book - Personal Finance in a Public World
Related Episodes: