On the 12th day of Christmas, my true love gave to me…a gift that made lots of money! The beloved Christmas song references gifts we wouldn’t know what to do with in our day and age– excuse me, eight maids a-milking? 

It’s obvious the holiday season is a time for giving, but why not give gifts that grow in value over time? I’m sure you have gotten your fair share of gifts that sit and collect dust. Why not invest in gifts that gain interest instead (literally and financially)? You can spend your money on things that depreciate, or you can choose gifts that continue to appreciate. Here is how to give gifts that provide lasting benefits, encourage personal growth, and build wealth for those you care about.

Investing in Yourself

The best investment anyone can make is in themselves. Gifts that encourage learning, skill development, and self-improvement are priceless because they equip the recipient to grow their value over time. You bring value, not time, to the marketplace. As you add more value, you make more money!

1. Educational Courses

An educational course is a powerful gift that can unlock new skills, improve careers, and inspire creativity. Platforms like MasterClass, Skillshare, and Coursera offer access to experts in various fields, from business to cooking to the arts. At WealthBuilders, we created a Masterclass in Business and Real Estate Investing 101 Masterclass to help people move to the next level.

WealthBuilders University (WBU) is an excellent option for people who want access to a wide array of wealth building topics. We take education further by offering courses designed to teach wealth-building principles like real estate investing, strategic business planning, and financial stewardship. A subscription to WBU is not just a gift—it’s an investment in someone’s future success. (Learn more about WealthBuilders University Here)

2. Books

Books are affordable and timeless gifts that provide lasting value. Whether your loved one wants to improve their finances, career, or mindset, the right book can transform their life.

Here are a few of my favorite financial books:

• The Richest Man in Babylon by George Clason
• The E-Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber
• Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki

Check out The WealthBuilders shop for books I wrote, like Run Your Race and Strategic Real Estate Investing. These books provide actionable strategies for building wealth and guidance on aligning your efforts with your purpose. 

3. Conferences or Retreats

Let me tell you a little secret: people are the best investment. Conferences and retreats provide opportunities to connect with others who can help you go further and faster than you could go alone. If you want to show someone on your list that you believe in them, why not invite them to an event like The WealthBuilders Conference? Our annual event features expert-led workshops, practical teaching in business, real estate, and investing, and prophetic moments of prayer and worship. Gifting a conference ticket is a way to inspire someone to think bigger and take a step toward their dreams. Click the banner below to learn more and register.

4. Tools for Hobbies

Gifts that help someone develop their skills can help them increase their earning potential (while having fun!) One discipline impacts another.  As people grow in one area, they are likely to grow in another, making this category full of gifts that keep on giving.

Consider these ideas:

• High-quality cooking utensils for aspiring chefs or foodies
• Art supplies, knitting kits, or musical instruments for creatives
• Gear or memberships for outdoor enthusiasts, such as hiking or biking equipment
• Language learning apps like Duolingo Plus or Rosetta Stone for those who want to expand their horizons
• Lessons in dance, music, or photography to help loved ones develop new talents

Wealth-Building Gifts

Why not give a gift that builds wealth directly? These options are perfect for setting someone up for long-term financial success.

5. Roth IRA Contributions

Help your loved ones jump-start their retirement savings with a contribution to a Roth IRA. While this may not be the most exciting gift idea in a kid’s mind, they will be grateful in the future. Plus, it provides a great opportunity to teach younger people in your life how to build generational wealth. This gift grows tax-free while teaching the importance of planning for the future.

6. Stock Shares, ETFs, or REITs

Stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and real estate investment trusts (REITs) are excellent ways to introduce someone to investing. A single share in a company like Apple or a low-cost ETF can ignite a lifelong interest in building wealth.

7. Budgeting Tools or Apps

Equip someone to take control of their finances with tools like You Need A Budget (YNAB) or Mint, which help users create budgets, track spending, and plan for financial goals. For a more comprehensive approach, The Triple X Factor: The Ultimate Guide to Building Kingdom Wealth goes beyond basic budgeting. This course walks people through how to create a personalized wealth building plan from start to finish using biblical principles.

8. Business Starter Kit

For aspiring entrepreneurs, consider gifts that help them start their own venture. Ideas include:

• Website hosting and domain registration for building an online presence.
• Business coaching sessions or online courses to provide mentorship and guidance.
• QuickBooks or similar accounting software to help manage finances efficiently.

Giving to Others

Giving to others is one of the most meaningful ways to celebrate the season. Beyond gifting to friends and family, consider giving in ways that make a lasting impact on the lives of others. Whether through charitable donations, faith-based contributions, or volunteering, these ideas enable you to share your blessings while advancing the Kingdom of God

9. Donate to a Nonprofit

You can donate in your name or honor your loved ones by donating to a nonprofit organization in their name. Whether it’s a cause they’re passionate about—like education, environmental conservation, or community development—a charitable gift is a great way to make a difference!

10. Give to a Church

Consider giving above and beyond your tithe to support your church or ministry effort they are doing in the community. Like most nonprofits, churches depend on year-end giving as a big part of their operating budget for the following year.

11. Invest in BRI, Pro-Values, or Kingdom Impact Investments

Biblically Responsible Investing (BRI) aligns your financial portfolio with values-based companies. Alternatively, Kingdom Impact Investments focus on funding projects that promote spiritual and social transformation. You can also set up a Donor Advised Fund in someone’s name. This flexible giving option allows them to support their favorite charities over time while enjoying potential tax benefits.

12. Give Your Time

Finally, the most meaningful gift you can give is your time. Volunteer with a loved one at a shelter, food bank, or community center this holiday season. Serving others together is a powerful way to build memories while making a difference!

Conclusion

The best gifts aren’t the ones that fade away after the holidays—they are the ones that grow in value, improve lives, and make a lasting impact. Whether you are encouraging someone to invest in themselves, build their wealth, or give generously to others, these gifts reflect the true meaning of the season.

This Christmas, choose gifts that keep on giving, and help your loved ones build a brighter, wealthier future.