Avoiding Overconsumption this Holiday
More presence, Less presents.
The holidays have a tendency to bring out our extra side.
Between the “doorbuster” deals (hello, Black Friday), grid-worthy décor, and 47 holiday events in one week, it’s easy to go from festive to frazzled faster than you can let out a Ho Ho Ho. This year, let’s flip the script. Less chaos, more calm. Less buying, more being. Here’s how to keep your sanity (and your space) intact.
1. Remember What It’s Actually About (Hint: It’s Not the Stuff)
Before you hit “add to cart” (again), pause.
Get clear on your “why.” Are you celebrating family, faith, or just trying to survive the school concert season? Knowing your focus helps you spend smarter.
Stop shopping for validation. No one’s giving out trophies for “Most Presents Under the Tree.” NO ONE!
Make meaning, not mess. The best memories don’t come with receipts.
Talk about it with your family. Normalize wanting less and enjoying more.
Gratitude is the ultimate mood stabilizer. Seriously - it makes “enough” feel perfect.
2. Chill on the Gift-Giving Madness
I totally get it…giving feels good. But overdoing it? Not so much.
Make a list. Stick to it. You’re not Santa; you don’t have to shop for everyone.
Try the “Four Gift Rule.” Something they want, need, wear, and read - boom, done.
Give experiences. Memories > more stuff. (Bonus: no decluttering required 6 months from now.)
Do a Secret Santa or swap. Because no one needs eight scented candles.
Write a heartfelt note. Costs nothing, means everything.
3. Decorate Without Going Full North Pole
Your home doesn’t need to look like a hallmark movie exploded in it.
Edit before you decorate. Toss or donate the tangled lights and chipped ornaments you haven’t used in 4 years.
Pick a vibe and stick to it. Cozy and calm > chaos and clutter.
Reuse what you’ve got. That garland? Still cute. Those candles? Timeless.
Buy quality, not quantity. One classic wreath beats 12 random knickknacks.
Label and store décor like a pro. Next year’s you will thank you.
4. Protect Your Calendar (and Your Sanity)
If every weekend feels like a marathon, you’re doing it wrong.
Pick your top priorities. Say yes to joy, no to guilt.
Use my fave magic word: “No.” Say it with me now - “Nooooo”. Feel good? Great! Because it is a full sentence and a life-saver.
Plan downtime. Resting is productive.
Batch errands. Less running around = more egg nog and Home Alone marathons.
Focus on moments, not madness. The best memories aren’t made in a rush.
5. Shop Smart So You Don’t Lose the Plot
This is where organization saves the day (and your wallet).
Keep a master list. Gifts, groceries, wrapping - all in one place. I personally use GrowMaple (not an Ad, just a great tool that works well for my family).
Unsubscribe from the sales chaos BEFORE Black Friday hijacks your inbox. You can’t buy what you don’t see.
Ask before every purchase: “Do I really need this or am I just bored? Where is this going to live? Is this solving a problem, or creating one?”
Wrap and label as you go. No more mystery gifts or double buys.
Purge before packing up. Donate what didn’t get used. Start next year lighter.
Final Thoughts
The holidays aren’t about how much you buy - they’re about how you feel. When you trade excess for ease, you actually get to enjoy the season (and maybe even your living room floor again). If you’re ready to get organized but feel like you could use help from an SOS elf, December sessions are still available. Learn more about process and rates or schedule a call - let’s get your shift together!