At the Holidays, Keep Gift-Giving Simple, Meaningful, and Debt-Free

Hi. Welcome to Bloom Anywhere. I'm Gwen Moran, a writer, editor, author, and problem-solver. My goal is to share information, ideas, and resources to help you overcome obstacles, reach your goals, and find more joy in life, even when things are messy. Thanks for joining me. (If you got this from a friend, subscribe here: Bloom Anywhere.) I'd love your feedback and suggestions for future topics. Please send me an email: connect@bloomanywhere.com.

When I was growing up, my family had good years and not-so-good years, financially. But no matter what, my parents went all-out for Christmas. On the morning of December 25, we would wake up to a tree with gifts stacked high underneath it.

Invariably, my siblings and I were awake before my parents, and I can remember the sense of excitement as we gathered around, wondering what might be in big stacks of brightly wrapped boxes.

Yet, out of all the presents—surely hundreds that cost many thousands of dollars in total—I can only remember a few. When I think of the effort and expense that went into making the “perfect” Christmas each year, it makes me sad. Still, for many years, I followed that example, buying lavish, expensive gifts as an expression of love.

Love Means Not Having a Credit Card Hangover

Over the years (and after becoming more financially savvy), I realized that there are better ways to show that we care at the holidays and in everyday life. This holiday, which is difficult for many in the current economy, consider permitting yourself to reject rampant consumerism and, instead, think of a different approach—one that won’t cause you to dread your credit card bill in January.

Adopt the four-gift framework: Several years ago, someone shared their tradition of buying four simple gifts at the holidays: something they want, something they need, something to wear, and something to read. I wish we had adopted this simple framework when my daughter was young. It requires thoughtfulness, which is the real beauty of gift-giving.

Opt for homemade and handmade: A friend of mine is an avid knitter and makes handmade scarves, hats, and other items for her loved ones. Another makes jams and soaps. Even if you’re not particularly gifted in the crafts or cooking areas, you can create something others will love—even if it’s a heartfelt letter or card. (See Bloom Drops below for some ideas.)

Create memories: One way to make sure your gift is remembered long after the gifting is to create experiences. Make a date for a movie or outing. Pitch in together to buy tickets to a theater production or even an affordable weekend getaway, depending on your budget. The memories you make will make you happy much longer than most material things. Plan a museum day (especially during free or low-cost admission periods) or offer to host a game night. Or, make them meaningful, like offering babysitting to new parents.

Try a Secret Santa or Yankee Swap: If you are part of a family that loves to give gifts, you can still make the season affordable. Put a cap on how much everyone spends. You can also take a Secret Santa approach, where each person draws a name and buys for one other person. This works especially well for families with grown siblings or friend groups who want to exchange gifts. If your crew is a little more competitive, you can also organize a Yankee Swap or White Elephant exchange.

Donate to a charity: Instead of giving a gift, make a donation to a meaningful cause in someone’s name. Or, if you are part of a group that exchanges gifts—officemates, your trivia team, or a book club, for example—donate and give each a handwritten note with an explanation of the impact the donation will have. Better yet, have the group pool their money and donate a gift to each other.

This time of year, there is massive pressure to spend money on things no one needs. Refusing to participate in the melee is not only a way to reduce your stress, but also a statement about the damage that consumerism does to people and our planet. Stepping back may not bring peace on Earth, but it may go a long way toward your own peace of mind. And that’s a good start.

Do you have great ideas for low-cost gifts? I’d love to hear them. Send me an email message: connect@bloomanywhere.com.

Bloom Drops

Things I want to share with you.

Making: Want to try your hand at making gifts? Mason jar gifts that are simple and affordable. Print a collection of favorite photos and create a small photo book or calendar. This Good Housekeeping piece shares 100+ creative and fun gifts that virtually anyone can make. I have made limoncello, which was popular with some friends. If you’re not into giving alcohol, then infused oils could be a good option, too.

Reading: I’m reading Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin. It’s an enjoyable read, but I’m also surprised at how much it’s teaching me about the game development process and the artists who create them. So far, so good.