This year is going to be different. I’m resolute. No more striving to create an extravagant holiday experience that leaves me feeling frazzled and inadequate. I refuse to let the pressure of gift-giving turn me into a bundle of stress. This year, I mean it.
I’ve reiterated this to myself, to my children, and even to the friendly salespeople trying to upsell me. I’ve informed the delivery driver and reminded my neighbors. This year, my house won’t be a hub of endless packages. I genuinely intend to break free from the chaos of excessive gifting.
Christmas will not be a measure of love based on the number of presents piled under the tree. I won’t be swayed by what others are buying for their kids. In the past, I’ve overwhelmed myself, only to end up frustrated and exhausted. Accumulating a mountain of gifts often leads to feelings of chaos rather than joy.
That’s why I am embracing the ‘Want-Need-Wear-Read’ approach for my children’s gifts. Initially, I dismissed this concept, believing our home was all about abundance. However, I’ve communicated this shift to my family. When they started sharing their holiday wishlists in September, I made it clear that things would be different this year. Naturally, there were some sulks and complaints at first—kids can be dramatic like that.
Eventually, this new approach prompted them to reflect on what they genuinely desired. My partner and I are prepared to invest in a few meaningful gifts, but we want to avoid the clutter that comes from unnecessary items. By limiting the number of presents, shopping becomes simpler, and we can focus on creating memorable experiences together.
If you find yourself swept away by the urge to buy everything for your kids, you’re not alone—many of us feel that nostalgia for our own childhoods. But often, we purchase items that our kids didn’t even ask for just to meet a perceived quota of gifts.
It’s a challenge, and I suspect it’s more difficult for adults to manage their excitement about gift-giving than for the kids, but it’s worth it. Personally, I’ve already completed my shopping (yes, I’m bragging), and now I have the time to plan a festive gathering, surprise my kids with a holiday performance, and indulge in baking and quality time together. These activities bring me far more joy than scrambling to find random items to wrap.
Interestingly, when my kids inquired about my wishes this year, I simply told them I want what they’re getting: I want them to behave! My hope is for a peaceful holiday season, where we can enjoy each other’s company without unnecessary stress. It’s all about the ‘want-need-wear-read’ idea benefiting everyone during the holiday season.
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In summary, adopting the ‘Want-Need-Wear-Read’ gift strategy not only simplifies holiday preparations but also enhances the overall experience by allowing families to focus on meaningful moments together rather than just material possessions.