With Christmas behind us we can relax and relish the memories of precious time spent with friends and family.

There is after all, no greater gift than the gift of time. 

A dedication of time shows we genuinely care for a person or a project.

Giving or receiving the gift of time allows us to form connections, generate trust and self confidence. Whether giving to a person or project, we are often presented with an opportunity to learn more about ourselves.

If only we could carry into the new year, the Christmas tradition of making time for ourselves and others.

But these days life is busy. We endlessly rush around chasing chore after chore, complaining that there just isn't enough time in the day. But time is time - there is no more and no less from yesterday to today. What matters is how we manage and prioritise our time, how we choose to spend it.

For example, if there is something we really want to achieve, by dedicating time to it we will see boundless growth, in both ourselves and our project. By giving our passions the gift of time we will be well rewarded. There is much enjoyment to be gained from spending time doing something we love.

And of course the same can be said for people. We will certainly find joy spending time with people we care about, dedicating a moment to say hi, write a message, send a gift, have a cuppa - whatever it might be. And in return, the recipient of our time will feel appreciated and loved. 

Recently it was my birthday and I was overwhelmed by the generosity of messages and visits I received on that day. The smallest gift of a message or phone call goes a long way to letting someone know they are appreciated. All those little moments of time add up to something BIG.

There really is no better gift for two people.

So next time uncertainty arises about what gift to buy that special someone, consider just taking the time to phone, message or visit. It's amazing how wonderful such a simple gesture can make a person feel. And taking time out for ourselves is just as important - it allows us to relax, reflect and learn a little more about ourselves.

When thinking about the year ahead and what New Year's Resolutions we might make, it is well worth considering how powerful the gift of time can be for ourselves and others. There is nothing more sacred - it's a reflection of love, care and commitment.

It's a gift that reaps great rewards for all involved, regardless of the time of year.