Stressed out by holiday gift giving? Opt for clutter-free alternatives.

Do any of these phrases sound familiar?
“I just can’t figure out what to get for so-and-so! It’s driving me nuts!”
“Shopping is just so stressful. The parking, the crowds…ugh!”
“What do I do with all this STUFF now? I’m so exhausted!”

Every year, it seems like there are more people fed up with the excess of the holidays, ready for a change. This time of year can be overwhelming for some, and not enjoyable at all. A recent post on becomingminimalist.com has me inspired to keep the conversation going and encourage others to take those steps to embrace experiences instead of stuff we don’t need. I definitely recommend giving that one a read - there are some eye-opening statistics and helpful tips. If more than half of us are receiving gifts we don’t need, and also wasting money on things other people don’t need, then it’s time to take a look at our current situation and work toward new habits that will reduce the stress and waste. It’s never too late to change your own outlook on gift giving and encourage your loved ones to do the same.

Earlier this week, I attended a meeting with local organizers, and we discussed clutter-free, organizer-friendly gift ideas. If gift-giving is a tradition your family members insist on, then suggest gifts of experience or things you can consume. My friend Janine Cavanaugh, the Helpful Organizer, put together a comprehensive list of clutter-free gifts. Check out Janine's blog post for some excellent gift ideas!

In last month’s post, I talked about the Danish concept of hygge (pronounced hoo-ga). I’m really sold on the idea that quality time and fun traditions bring on those warm fuzzy feelings we chase this time of year, and the stuff just brings stress. One thing worth mentioning - many people over schedule this time of year and get worn out. These ideas are not meant to burden you, but instead inspire new habits to replace the old ones. If you and your friends/family want to start dropping the gift-giving all together, here are some activities and traditions you can incorporate into not just the holidays, but all winter long:

​Quality time indoors:

• Hold a movie night at someone’s house. There can be an easy pot luck or food prep activity to enjoy together beforehand. Make some popcorn, maybe bake cookies, prepare some warm beverages, etc. Bonus if it’s a movie you’ve all seen before, then there’s space for chatter ;)
• Get together to look at photos, reminisce happy memories, tell stories
• A simple pot luck just to get together and chat
• Game night - get together and play your favorite games
• Rent a cabin for a weekend or longer in a beautiful place with friends/family and take it easy.

Get outside:

• Forage for greenery (where allowed) and make arrangements. This is a forgiving craft project - it’s easy to make something beautiful as a centerpiece, to hang on your door, or on your doorstep. And, the best part is, you can compost this project when you’re done. Clutter free crafts are awesome, no need for storage later!
• If there’s snow on the ground, go sledding. Bodies appreciate fresh air, movement, and the thrill of the downhill! Your favorite chair and a warm beverage are waiting for you when you’re done.
•  Go skating at your local rink.
• Take a walk and observe the changes around you. The leaves have fallen, the evergreens stand out, and some hardy birds stick around. Take some time to be grateful for your warm, cozy home.
• Have a campfire in someone’s backyard
• Find a local astronomy group and observe the Geminid Meteor Shower. This one is sure to put on a good show! If you live in or near Rhode Island, there’s an event on December 13th in Charlestown at the Frosty Drew observatory. 

Get out around town:

• Many towns and cities have tree lighting events, parades, and caroling. Check with your local area newspaper for listings. If you live in Rhode Island, the Providence Journal posts this information weekly, check it out here. 
• You could simply plan a day in a quaint town. Enjoy the decorations, linger in a cozy coffee shop, and take a stroll through town. Who knows, you might even stumble upon an interesting event!
• Visit historic homes that have been decked out. This is also a great opportunity to learn a little bit of history and take a step back in time.
• Some museums might decorate for the holidays or change up their exhibits. This can bring a new level of interest to a place you’ve visited before.

Help family members decorate and/or declutter:

• My mom and I recently helped my grandmother spruce up her house a bit for the holidays. A festive tablecloth, a wreath on the door, and simple lights around the mantle. It doesn’t have to be a total deck out, just enough to bring some interest and cheer. What would have taken her all day was done in less than an hour, and she really appreciated it. Don’t forget to come back and help put everything away!
• Help a family with children declutter their toys. Most children get new toys this time of year. Weeding out what they don’t play with anymore makes space for the new stuff coming in and reduces overwhelm later. This is also a great opportunity to donate to less fortunate children, and have a talk with your family about helping others. When you’re done, spend some time playing with the toys that are still loved.

Are you working on changing your narrative around gift giving? What are your favorite yearly activities and traditions? I’d love to hear from you, feel free to comment down below.