Sometimes the holidays can be life-taking rather than life-giving. We’ve all had times when “to do” lists or racking our brains to come up with a unique gift can take the fun out of the season. This year can be different. Below are some gift giving ideas I’ve learned from friends and family that I hope will help all of us have more time to breathe and better enjoy the holidays.
“Favorite Things” Party
This new twist on a gift exchange will simplify the season. After setting a per item dollar limit, ask guests to pick one of their favorite things and purchase/bring enough for everyone to take one home. It could be a bottle of wine, a favorite mascara, a new favorite gadget, etc. Everyone can take turns sharing why they love their item and at the end of the night each person leaves with all the “favorite things” to enjoy for themselves. This takes me back to watching episodes of Oprah’s favorite things!
Plan a “Shared Splurge”
Rather than trying to come up with yet another unique gift for your closest friend(s), decide to enjoy a shared experience or a mutual “splurge.” Examples include getting a pedicure together, buying tickets to a musical to attend together, reserving a “chef experience” at a local restaurant or splurging on a “wouldn’t ordinarily spend that much” bottle of wine to share over dinner. Coming up with an idea you’re both excited about can add fun and joy back to the season.
Organize a “Give Back” Gathering
Rather than a traditional gift exchange, gather friends for a party, but ask each to bring 10 of an assigned item that can be used to stuff “Blessing Bags.” These can be donated to a local shelter or to support hurricane relief. Knox Area Rescue Ministries has a list of items to include/exclude on their website (Karm.org/faqs/). Examples include travel sized toiletries, deodorant and band-aids. Research shows that doing something to help others promotes joy and provides a mental lift. What better gift could you give to your friends around the holidays?
Reduced stress may just be the best gift you can give yourself and your loved ones this season. Consider these ways, and others, that give a fresh perspective on traditional gift giving while lessening stress and adding some joy back into the season.
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