Intentional Spending + Gifting
As the holiday season approaches, it's that time of the year when we deck the halls, trim the tree, and, let's face it, often find ourselves drowning in a sea of festive impulse purchases.
Last week, I helped a client purge bags and bags of clothes that still had the tags on them along with a large bin filled with Christmas gifts from past years that had never been touched! I wish I could say that I don’t see this often, but I do. (Trust me, I am not coming from a place of judgment as I have spent countless dollars on things we didn’t need only to watch them sit in my closet or basement and collect dust.) As my client uncovered these items they were so HURT that the gifts had never been used and kept saying “what a waste of money”.
According to the National Retail Federation, the average American family spent approximately $998 on holiday-related expenses in 2022. This includes gifts, decorations, food, and other festive goodies. Now, don't get me wrong; spreading holiday cheer is fantastic, but how much of that almost $1,000 truly enhances the magic of the season?
The Gift of Thoughtful Giving
Gift-giving is undoubtedly a big part of the holiday season. But before you embark on a shopping spree, consider this: the average American spends around $700 on gifts during the holidays. Most of those gifts end up in the back of the closet, forgotten and unused. By adopting an intentional approach to gifting, you can create a more meaningful exchange that reflects the true spirit of the season. Here’s how
Tips for Intentional Spending
Make a List and Check It Twice: Just like Santa, create a list of the things you and your family genuinely need or want. Stick to it to avoid impulse purchases.
Quality Over Quantity: Invest in high-quality items that will stand the test of time. This applies to decorations, gifts, and even festive attire.
Experiences > Things: Consider giving experiences rather than physical gifts. Whether it's a cooking class, concert tickets, or a weekend getaway, memories last longer than material possessions.
DIY Delights: Get crafty! Create homemade decorations and gifts for a personal touch that won't break the bank.
Declutter Before You Decorate: Before diving into the holiday décor boxes, take a moment to declutter. Donate or discard items that no longer bring joy.
Shop your home before you shop the stores: With holiday decor being available at retailers earlier and earlier, it can be very tempting to buy new decor or stock up on baking supplies, not realizing that you might already have it at home
👉Experience-based Gifts: Consider gifting experiences like concert tickets, spa days, or cooking classes. They create memories, not clutter
👉Subscription Services: Opt for subscriptions to services like streaming platforms, audiobooks, or a meal kit delivery service. It's entertainment without adding physical stuff.
👉Digital Media: Gift e-books, digital music, or even online courses. They provide enrichment without taking up physical space.
👉Customized Services: Gift services like a professional massage, house cleaning, or a home organizer 😉. It's a practical and appreciated gesture.
👉Charitable Donations: Make a donation in their name to a cause they care about. It's a thoughtful gift that makes a positive impact