The Helpful Guide to Simple Christmas Links
“When we recall Christmas past, we usually find that the simplest things – not the great occasions – give off the greatest glow of happiness.” – Bob Hope
I am often asked for thoughts and advice on celebrating Christmas. And when I am, there are a number of helpful resources I send out in reply.
Personally, I have written my Christmas thoughts elsewhere: I respect gift-giving as a love language and do not rob my family members of that simple joy. But I prefer quality over quantity, needs over wants, experiences over products, and provide gift wish-lists whenever possible. For the kids, we reevaluate toy boxes and closet space a few months after the holidays to determine if there are items (new or old) to remove. The philosophy is simple, straight-forward, and easy to manage.
But I am not the first to write about enjoying a simpler Christmas. In fact, as I mentioned earlier, there are countless posts/articles/guides on experiencing a simple, stress-free Christmas. And in an effort to create a valuable resource for myself and others, here is a comprehensive list of the best links in one handy, thorough, shareable guide.
The Helpful Link Guide to a Simpler Christmas
Rethinking Christmas.
The Case Against Buying Christmas Presents | Zen Habits - I love Christmas, but the shopping has got to go. Here’s why.
1 Simple Strategy to Save $2,000 this Holiday and Make Everyone Love You Forever | Far Beyond the Stars - You’ve been bombarded by advertising since the day you were born telling you that the only way Christmas would be a success was if you spent somewhere around $1,000 on gifts for people.
35 Gifts Your Children Will Never Forget | Becoming Minimalist - I have countless holiday memories. Most of them center around faith, family, and traditions. But very few childhood memories actually include the gifts I received.
Gift-Giving Guides.
The Ultimate Clutter-Free Gift Guide | Slow Your Home - The ultimate list of awesome clutter-free gifts that will impress your family and friends.
One Less Gift – A Holiday Gift Exemption Certificate | Miss Minimalist - Tired of holiday consumerism? Give a “One Less Gift” Certificate to someone special.
A Non-Consumer Christmas: Simple Gifts for Kids and Grown-Ups | Get Rich Slowly - Not sure what to buy for your loved ones this year? Consider buying nothing at all.
5 Powerful Ways to Share an Experience This Holiday Season | Simple Marriage - Instead of going through the motions and cruising into the New Year with nothing but a few new possession, why not focus on sharing experiences with your spouse?
Simple, Practical Guides.
The Top of Your Holiday To-Do List: Breathe. | Simple Mom - Your holiday preparation assignment today? Breathe. Relax your shoulders. And do the following.
Three Steps to a Simplified Holiday | Be More With Less - For far too long, Western culture has convinced us that the best types of holiday celebrations involve more – more decorations, more presents, more time commitments, more stuff.
Beyond the Tension: Having Christmas with Joy | Small Notebook - After sampling both sides, I choose to do those things that reflect joy in my activities and attitude.
Holiday Printable Guides.
Christmas Budget Worksheet | Life Your Way
Christmas Gift List | Life Your Way
More Christmas Printables | Life Your Way
Emotional Needs.
How to Survive (and Thrive) During the Holidays When You Feel Alone | Zen Habits - There may be some of you who are going through these holidays without family, without anyone perhaps, and I know that can be extremely rough. This post is for you.
This Christmas, Give Peace | Becoming Minimalist - Family relationships can cause conflict, turmoil, and stress at any time, but the tensions are often heightened during the holidays – that is what makes the Christmas season so difficult for many.
Finding Happiness in the Midst of Grief | Zen Habits - Pay attention to the people in your life because relationships are the only true wealth.
