Our world continues to look different as a result of the pandemic. I am sure experts predicted the many consequences of a virus shutting down the world, but I have not gone out of my way to proactively study what might be next. My approach has been to take it as it comes—survive and advance if you will. I think it’s mental self-preservation. The changes in our world have provided all of us with a chance to reframe thoughts and traditions.
I am incredibly grateful that the pandemic has not had a catastrophic impact on me. Has it introduced inconveniences along the way? You bet. None of us are entirely immune to the side effects of a worldwide shutdown. Most recently, we have been experiencing a massive disruption in the supply chain. It has certainly put things in perspective, showing us how spoiled we were to have what we wanted when we wanted it. But now, if you need a part or a specific item, the ‘rona has dictated, “Not so fast!” This topic has been pushed to the headlines with the holiday buying frenzy quickly approaching.
In my opinion, the supply chain disruption is providing a terrific opportunity to reset. Perhaps this is a chance to reevaluate priorities. Don’t get me wrong, the inability to source a part for a broken washing machine prompting multiple trips to a laundromat doesn’t exactly have me dancing for joy, but bear with me. Regardless of faith background, many families will celebrate holidays in the upcoming months that have traditionally included exchanging gifts. Maybe 2021 is a chance to take a second look at that tradition. Or find alternative “gifts” to give. Here are some ideas that I think are worth consideration:
Experiential Gifts
Rather than buying a bunch of material items, consider what experience you could gift someone. Think about what they enjoy doing but don’t spend the money or time to actually do. As a bonus, you may be supporting local businesses trying desperately to rebound.
- Take someone out to eat
- Purchase a gift certificate for a local attraction
- Gift them lessons for a new hobby
- Volunteer together for a local organization
- Treat them to a massage, pedicure, or indulgent experience
The Gift of Time
Quality time with loved ones has undoubtedly been disrupted since March 2020. I believe the pandemic taught us all how important time spent with others is to our happiness. Perhaps this year, you put the gift exchanges on pause and simply decide to spend time with your people. Plan a festive meal. Use the money you would spend on gifts and plan a trip together instead. Just be together without the pressure of needing to come bearing gifts.
Written Gifts
One of the greatest gifts I received this year was a written, mailed letter from a dear friend I have known since kindergarten. The timing was eerily impeccable. But it was an incredible letter of support, encouragement, and love. It meant more to me than any physical item and arrived just when I needed it, and I may never be able to repay her for that gift. Write letters to loved ones expressing your gratitude for the joy they bring to your life. I pull out cards or letters and read them if I need a boost. That’s just not something a new sweater can provide.
Creative Gifts
I do acknowledge that gift-giving is how some people prefer to show love. If you have a unique, creative talent, consider making a personalized item. Many people took up baking during stay-at-home orders. Put that practice to use and make edible gifts for others. Record a short song using your musical talent. Send a video clip with thoughtful greetings, or order one from your favorite athlete or celebrity on cameo.
It’s true, I prefer to live simply, but I am not just trying to push my agenda here! Researchers like Yale’s Lauri Santos have proven that perpetually buying stuff (I would substitute another “s” word) does not lead to happiness. I have noticed how consumption and gift-giving have changed since I was a child. I used to look through the Toys ‘R Us catalog and mark items that excited me, hoping to receive just one toy. Today, most of us buy what we need when we need it. Many kids have more toys than they can feasibly enjoy. Maybe it’s time to start modeling quality time together during the holidays for the next generation and set the wrapping paper aside.
This year, I challenge you to recalibrate your thinking; step outside of your comfort zone. Find new, creative ways to celebrate your holiday. Center it around quality time spent with those you love. You might be surprised to learn how much headspace the stress of buying the perfect present for everyone has been taking up. Let’s stop waiting until people die to talk about how much they mean to us. Go out of your way to share with friends or family why you love them.
If you are brave enough to mix up your holiday traditions and hate it, I grant you full permission to return to the gift frenzy in 2022. But researchers have studied what people wish for on their death bed, and spoiler alert: it’s not another pair of socks or a gift card to the Home Depot.
the single minimal(ist) 