A Minimalist Guide to Celebrating the Holidays: Finding Joy Beyond Stuff

Introduction

I'm sure I'm not alone in feeling a bit stressed as the holidays approach. Giving is how I express love, and I want to make those I care about feel valued and cherished. There's always pressure to have "better gifts" or the "best-decorated house," but that's not what truly matters. Reflecting on my childhood, I don't recall the gifts I got or the house's decorations; I remember the traditions and the fun!

As someone aspiring to minimalism but also an interior designer with a passion for beauty, balancing my love for shopping with a desire for simplicity can be challenging. However, I believe it's entirely achievable with a few changes in mindset. I'll discuss how to rethink holiday gift-giving, simplify decor, and embrace minimalist traditions.

1. Rethink Holiday Gift-Giving

• Adopt the ‘Want, Need, Wear, Read’ Rule

  This is a strategy that some parents came up with to keep fairness in a household of children. Each child could receive up to four gifts: something they want, need, wear, and read. This can also help streamline the decision-making process, as some people are hard to purchase gifts for. Ask them these questions and then go from there! This framework also reduces clutter and encourages intentional gift-giving.

  
  

  One of my favorite useful gifts was a file organizer similar to this...it was crafted and even personalized to me!

  
  

  

  It was not an "expensive" gift, but I highly treasure and still use it today because of its usefulness. The photos of these are included, are linked, and unsponsored, but consider trying to make it yourself first before purchasing!

  
  

  Consider gifting an experience such as aquarium passes or a spa gift card. If you are on a tight budget, movie tickets are a great gift for a rainy-day!

• Consider the Gift of Time

  Time is a gift, and something that we should not take for granted. Humans are made to be in community. Consider hosting a little get-together—a holiday-themed game night or a dinner potluck. Even the gesture of an invite can mean a lot to people, especially in the loneliness epidemic we are currently facing.

You can also donate your time by volunteering with a local charity such as the Salvation Army or your local food pantry. Helping those less fortunate is a beautiful way to gift your time and energy. You ultimately feel blessed after!

2. Simplify Holiday Decor

• Value the Gift of Time

  Time is precious, and we should cherish it. People are meant to connect with others. Think about organizing a small gathering, like a holiday-themed game night or a dinner potluck. Even extending an invitation can be significant to someone, especially given the current loneliness epidemic.

  
  

  You can also contribute your time by volunteering with local organizations such as the Salvation Army or a nearby food pantry. Assisting those in need is a wonderful way to share your time and energy, and it leaves you feeling blessed!

2. Simplify Holiday Decor

• Focus on the Basics.

  Not everyone might agree with this idea, and that's completely fine! Decorating can be thrilling. Remember, whatever you display, you will eventually need to put away. Focus on the essentials. It's more effective to have one striking piece of decor than numerous smaller ones.

  
  

  Choose your decor wisely! Avoid purchasing items just because they are discounted (a common temptation), and consider what value they truly bring to your space. A few meaningful decor items can make a significant impact. I'll share some items that I find to be beautiful and simple, adding joy to my home.

• Stick to the Essentials.

  Some people may not like this suggestion, which is totally understandable! It can be so exciting to decorate your space! Keep in mind that whatever you put out, you will also have to put away. Stick to the basics. It is better to have one beautiful piece of decor to bring the eye to than a bunch of smaller pieces.

  
  

  Be picky about your decor! Don't just buy something because it is a good deal (my weakness), but ask yourself what the item will truly add to your space. A few pieces of meaningful decor can make all the difference. I will include some items that I think are beautiful and simple pieces of decor that add joy to my home.

• Embrace Nature.

  Incorporate fresh greenery, candles, and homemade garlands if available. These elements can create a soothing and refreshing ambiance in your home while saving money on artificial decor. Conversely, opting for a fake tree can minimize waste and mess, so there's no need to feel guilty about purchasing artificial greenery. The color green is known to evoke feelings of comfort, calmness, and relaxation.

  
  

• Declutter Before Decorating.

  Clear your space of clutter before you start decorating. This will enhance the tranquility of your environment as you introduce your decor. It will also help you feel more relaxed when hosting guests!

  
  
  
  

3. Embrace Minimalist Traditions

• Create a Gratitude Calendar

  Swap advent gifts for daily gratitude reflections. This season is ideal for acknowledging your blessings. If the year has been challenging, finding gratitude can be tough. Begin with small things like food or a special person in your life. It's a perfect time to cultivate a positive habit even before the new year starts!

• Value Presence Over Presents

  While gifts are thrilling, spending time with cherished ones is more valuable than any gift. If you can't visit loved ones in person, it can be quite disheartening. Consider writing them a handwritten letter—a lost art that can be profoundly meaningful! FaceTime and Zoom are also excellent tools to use.

  
  

  If you can be with family or loved ones, make an effort to disconnect from screens and engage in quality time together. This could involve playing board games, enjoying music, or participating in outdoor activities. There are many activities beyond eating and shopping. Try ice skating, skiing, or a short hike if possible!

Conclusion

I hope this inspires you to enjoy the holiday season with less stress and more savings!

The minimalist approach focuses on prioritizing joy and bringing people together. It's about intentional living without sacrifice. I encourage you to reflect on what makes this season meaningful to you. This will help you make guilt-free decisions this season.