Many of the people I talk to as a Life Coach tell me they wish they had less clutter in their homes. It comes up so often it feels like a cultural trend. When they are working on clearing out stuff, one of the things they often get stuck on is getting rid of unused or unloved gifts. They seem to feel a sense of obligation to display or keep whatever has been given to them.
I feel pretty sure that none of us want to put our loved ones in this type of situation and we may even wish we only received gifts ourselves that didn’t create more clutter. One solution would be to focus on clutter free gifts that are:
- Consumable
- Won’t take physical space
- Truly fills a need
Here are some ideas for you:
Gift Cards – They are an obvious solution to the clutter issue and allow receivers to use as they wish, but some of us feel they are impersonal or not “good enough”. If you tailor the type of card to something that came up in conversation or you know they will enjoy, it will likely be appreciated. Gift card ideas include:
- Meals or experiences
- Events
- Services like manicures, massages or house cleaning
- Classics like Amazon, Walmart or Visa
- Streaming or music apps like Netflix or Audible
- Grocery stores or gas if they drive a lot
Themed Baskets – Find a nice basket or container and fill it with items that will provide an experience. Common ideas include:
- Date night
- Movie night
- At home spa
- Wine, coffee or chocolate (Yum!)
Virtual or In Person Classes – These can include things like painting, crafting, dancing, yoga, cooking or even something that will improve their career or business skills.
Donate to a Charity in Their Name – Buy a goat for families in undeveloped countries, help bring water to a community, feed children, or contribute to research in cancer, heart disease or another medical condition that would be meaningful.
Give Them a Membership – Zoos, museums and national parks have great membership programs that often include extra benefits.
Homemade Consumables – Baked goods, preserves, sauces, candy, nuts and other goodies are very unlikely to be around long enough to contribute to clutter.
Make Your Own Gift Certificates – Offering to babysit, clean house or provide other help when needed can be priceless and clutter free.
Other Things Unlikely to Become Clutter:
- Home or car emergency kits
- Diapers and wipes
- Food delivery service
- Stamps
- Financial Peace University or another valuable program
Fun or Meaningful Holiday Cards – Instead of gifts, exchange hand made or silly cards that make the person receiving it feel something. I know some families who get quite competitive in trying to find the funniest cards that keep each other laughing.
Nothing – When everyone agrees, you can give each other the gift of simple, gift and clutter free holidays and focus on time together instead.
Whatever you choose to gift to your loved ones, I wish you a wonderful holiday season full of love, fun and happy moments!
Related Posts:
20 Ways to Stay Centered During the Holidays