Last Friday was Black Friday. Monday was Cyber Monday. And this entire season is marked with a desperate need to shop and spend on the perfect gift for the people we love. And while giving the perfect gift is fun and rewarding in its own way, driving ourselves crazy and going into debt is not. As you hit the malls, stores, or keyboard this holiday, remember that it really is the thought and love behind the gift, and not what you spent, that matters most.
I admit I have trouble following this advice. I would love to buy the toy aisle for my children and fill my husband’s garage with all things mechanical. But this year, I am trying to cut back. My shopping list is smaller by choice. And in my family, we’ve drawn names and set a spending limit for the adults. I’m going to bake for teachers and neighbors. And I plan to write several heartfelt and beautiful cards.
I can promise this: every gift I give will be given with lots of love and thoughtfulness.
We are saving for not only buying a house, but a new car, so we are really feeling the pressure to cut back on gifts this year. My husband and I normally don’t give each other gifts (we are into ‘experiences’ so we usually book trips together instead) but I’m worried about not giving my nieces and nephew the usual fanfare. They don’t live close by so even spending time with them isn’t much of an option. Anyway, I love this quote, and your sentiment!
Strive to Thrive,
Nic
http://www.Thriving-Wives.com
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You’re saving for very important things! And what if you sent your nieces and nephews small but very special gifts. And you could even wrap lots of parts separately so there is more to open, but less spent overall. I don’t know how old they are, but I know my nieces and nephews can recognize a well wrapped and thought out gift. I’ve learned you can’t ditch your goals because of others expectations. Remembering that doesn’t take the pressure off, but it does refocus my energy.