Skip the Stores This Holiday

Over the last several years, there has been a rise in minimalism,
eco-consciousness, and a rejection of excessive consumerism that has influenced how many people approach the holiday season. Parents are teaching their children that the best gifts to give and receive can’t be bought at a department store. Many people are also trying to re-focus the season on family, togetherness, and giving gifts that are full of meaning. We have some ideas for how to skip the stores this holiday and make the season about what matters most to you.

Embracing Minimalism and Conscious Consumerism

The rejection of material possessions to live a simpler and more fulfilling life is a practice that dates back to ancient times. Its recent rise in popularity is a counter movement against unethical capitalist practices and the negative impact that overconsumption has on our planet. Conscious consumerism is the focus on spend money in a way that creates a positive impact. In short, it’s about focusing on quality over quantity and prioritizing experiences, people, traditions, and meaningful gift exchanges.

Photo © Greater Good Charities

Photo © Oro Whitley

Photo © Greater Good Charities

Meaningful Gift Giving

If you have found yourself wanting a simpler holiday filled with more meaning or are concerned with the impact of the gifts you are giving, here are some ideas to incorporate into your festivities.

5 ideas for more meaningful gift giving:

1. Sentimental Gifts:
   Capture cherished memories with sentimental gifts like photo books. These timeless keepsakes not only showcase the thought put into the present but also provide a lasting memory they can go back to time and again.
   
   
2. Well-Being and Personal Growth Gifts:
   A gift to an online class or workshop for a topic they’ve expressed interest in or even giving them time to recharge and de-stress with a quiet at home spa day shows how much you care.
   
   
3. Handmade Gifts:
   There is nothing more personalized than something you create yourself. Crafted with care and creativity, these one-of-a-kind items reflect your thoughtfulness and effort, making them uniquely special.
   
   
4. Thrifted, Second-Hand, or Upcycled Gifts:
   These gifts have multiple benefits, they are sustainable, unique, and often more budget friendly. There are many hidden gems in second-hand stores, Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and more. Whether it's a vintage find or a creatively upcycled item, these gifts minimize environmental impact and show your commitment to thoughtful giving.
   
   
5. Donate on Their Behalf:
   Make a meaningful impact by donating to a cause close to their heart on their behalf. This thoughtful gesture goes beyond material possessions, allowing both the giver and the recipient to feel a sense of fulfillment. For some great donation ideas for People, Pets, Planet, and Disaster Relief, check out the Greater Good Charity Give Good Catalog.  

Embrace the spirit of the season this year by incorporating some of our meaningful gift giving ideas into your holiday celebration. By choosing to focus on the quality over quantity, your celebrations can create lasting memories of the things that matter most, while making a positive impact this season.