As people feel the financial pinch of a down economy, thoughts of holiday festivities may feel like a mixed bag. Sure, you want to enjoy the season, but you’re cutting back this year, right? So how can you celebrate without gifts-o-plenty?
Rather than feel guilty that you won’t be buying your child an Xbox 360 or surprising your mate with a special extravagance, step back and look for the deeper meaning of your celebration.
One meaning is that building a happy life has less to do with material goods and more to do with your relationships. Yes, you’ve probably heard this before, I know, but science shows that relationships are a key to happiness, regardless of your income.
In one study, psychologist Ed Diener found that homeless people in Calcutta are happier than the homeless in America because they have a stronger circle of caring people in their lives, and that soothes the emotional strains of poverty and boosts their feelings of self worth.
This holiday season ask yourself: how can I strengthen my relationships and celebrate without overspending?
Here are five tips:
- Write a personal letter to family members telling them why you love them or thanking them for what they’ve given you.
- Give a framed photo of you with the people you care about most.
- Have a potluck dinner with family and friends.
- Share a gift exchange with presents of $10 or less.
- Make homemade gift certificates redeemable for a special lunch together.
By Darlene Mininni, Intent.com
Photo courtesy of Intent
