Check Off Your Holiday Gift List with Ease

Do Not Give and You Shall Receive

With the state of our economy, this year is the perfect year to stop the gifting madness.  If you have to put a gift on a credit card, you cannot afford it.  If you are stumped about what to purchase someone, they probably are not in need of anything.  Do not worry about what others will think if you do not buy them a gift card to their favorite eatery or a colorful new sweater.  In fact, I really believe that most of us will be right on board not exchanging gifts this year.  Do not get me wrong, we all love to give (and receive) gifts, but most will agree it can become out of control.  The feeling inside to see someone open something you have chosen just for them is joyous.  I am not saying the giving and feeling of joy has to go away, we may just find more joy in giving of ourselves not only during the holiday season, but all year long.

Be honest with yourself as to your spending limits and have the conversations about exchanging gifts before the holiday gathering so no one feels uneasy about getting a gift with nothing to give in return.  There is no need to disclose our financial records in the discussion, it is not solely about money.  The truth is, most of us are able to go and get what we want and need when we want it and probably do so.  I would much rather someone not give me a gift if they cannot afford it.  What kind of joy is there when someone struggles just to make ends meet because of money spent on material items they could not afford?

In earlier articles on our site there are ideas for gifts without spending tons of money.  Hopefully you can find ideas or be inspired to create your own unique gifts.

Do not fret, you will still be spending over the holidays, the kids still need presents…this is a must.  If you cannot afford presents for the kids in your life, reach out and ask for help.  If we are not frivously spending on adults, many will have that extra cash just waiting to be spent on presents.  How great would you feel if you were able to help someone in a time of need rather than buy a new necktie for your uncle who never even wears a tie?

Consider this, later you will not find yourself all stressed out once the bills start piling in.  You will feel better and be able to be a better friend, wife, daughter or sister to those you did not exchange with when they may need you to listen and help solve a problem later.  The terrific thing is, if the problem is about money, it will not be from another year of exchanging sundries you could not afford.  Giving is so much more than monetary.  Giving is being there to help and listen when someone needs you.  This year enjoy the time you spend with those you care about and you will receive a gift that surpasses anything money can buy.