By Debra LeClair Psy.D
1) The re-evaluation of how we celebrate the holidays has never been more open to change than it has in the last few years. Thinking of putting limits on the gift giving? Most people are thinking the same thing and would welcome the conversation. Want to scale down on your decorating? Pick 2-3 decorations that give you the most pleasure and let the rest go…you can always bring things back in the future.
2) Practical gifts seem like they will be appreciated more than ever. Consider giving: gas cards, gift cards to grocery stores or even a supply of a person’s favorite staple (coffee, green cleaning products, etc.). Gifts that help improve the immune system (baskets of favorite fruit, anything that makes exercise more fun) will also go a long way.
3) A friend says that she has instituted a personal policy that “re-gifting is ok”. She has experienced good feelings from taking gifts she wouldn’t use and matching them to more appreciative recipients.
