Conscious Christmas Gifting
I am currently being bombarded with ‘Black Friday’ marketing and the temptations of huge sales. Typically, I would take this time to buy my extensive list of Christmas gifts and put a lot of time, energy, money and thoughts into gifts for my loved ones. This year I’m doing things a lil different, and I invite you to shift your mindset on Christmas Gifting in 2022.
To gift, or not to gift?
Firstly, have a conversation with those on your giftee list. What will be your expectations around gifting this year? Consider how much this person values receiving gifts. If you have an understanding of the five ‘Love Languages’, this could guide you to giving a gift that is of real value. Have a look into the ‘Love Languages’ here Discover Your Love Language - The 5 Love Languages®. Take the quiz to see what yours and your loved ones ‘Love Languages’ are.
So, you’ve decided gifts aren’t a biggie for you or your loved ones, you may choose an alternative like ‘Quality Time’ together. This could be going out for a cocktail at your favourite bar, or a meal at your favourite restaurant.
If ‘Acts of Service’ is of high value to you, give the gift of an experience. I like the idea of a concession for a local pilates/yoga studio or beauty/massage therapy.
If you value supporting others, use the money you would spend on gifting to donate to a charity of choice. In Nelson/NZ I am choosing to support; HFN Christmas Appeal (raisely.com), Events — Fifeshire Foundation Big Give, Christmas Appeal - Variety - the Children's Charity.
Don’t be a Grinch Morgan, I want to gift!
Use a ‘Secret Santa’ concept so you are only gifting for one person in the family, agree on a limit for the gift cost. This reduces your giftee list, and overall cost you spend on gifting.
DrawNames New Zealand ~ Gift Exchange | Kris Kringle | Secret Santa Generator
Create an understanding with your friends/family about realistic amounts to spend on gifts. This year, as a part of my budgeting I have set the boundary of $50pp for a gift-often this means splitting a gift between a group (win, win!)
Gift consciously and mindfully.
Shop local, support small business.
Collections – The Waste-Free Home (thewastefreehome.co.nz)
More about Curating Sustainable Holidays here.
Happy shopping (or not)!
M x
