‘Tis the season for giving! We thoroughly enjoy seeing the faces of our loved ones light up when we give them a heartfelt gift. But choosing the right gift while staying on budget can feel overwhelming. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), 41% of American adults report higher stress levels during the holiday season. The 2023 APA poll also found that “43% said that the stress of the holidays interferes with their ability to enjoy them and 36% said the holidays feel like a competition” (APA). The good news is that there are better ways to approach gift-giving, which can help manage the stress that comes with it.
Have a Plan and Set a Budget
Before the holiday festivities get into full swing, decide your plans and set a budget. Gift-giving can add up quickly, so sticking with a plan can help avoid impulse buying and last-minute panic. You’ll want to leave a little wiggle room in your budget to account for any unexpected changes or additions to your gift list. Financial stress can easily take the joy out of gift-giving, but remember that heartfelt gifts don’t need to be expensive.
Try a New Approach
An extensive gift list can leave your head spinning as you decide on the perfect gifts for each person. Stress can arise by trying to accommodate everyone on your list. Financially, it might not be realistic to purchase gifts for each person. If you celebrate the holidays with a large family or friend group, you might want to think about a new approach. Recommend a gift exchange instead of expecting everyone to buy separate gifts for each person. Set a budget and then draw names, create a fun gift exchange game, or choose something to share as a group.
Consider Gift Alternatives
The most thoughtful gifts don’t always come from the store. We stress about how much to spend on gifts and where we’ll purchase them, but we often forget how impactful things like time and experiences can be. Consider an alternative gift like babysitting for new parents, a trip to the museum, a home-cooked meal, or a family movie night. The memories made will often last a lifetime.
Remember the Reason
We are easily caught up in the whirlwind of gifts during the holidays, only to be left feeling stressed and overwhelmed. If you’re starting to feel the pressures of the holidays, take a step back and remember the reasons you want to give a gift in the first place. Sincere presents don’t need to come with a hefty price tag. As the saying goes, it is the thought that counts.
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