Uncluttered Giving 2011

(I'm re-posting an updated version of this earlier musing on gift giving.)

It’s the time of year when we look for ideas for gifts to give and to (subtly) request. My clients and those attending my seminars and workshops know that I am passionate about reducing the unnecessary “stuff” in our spaces and lives. I call it “giving consumables” – items that are used and enjoyed quickly without taking up permanent residence in our residence! Most of us have too many things and not enough time and serenity, so I’ve been thinking about some ways to show we care without adding to the clutter.

This is my answer to the “oh no - another gadget/ knick knack/ pair of socks/ dust collector” dilemma. The concepts can be valuable for a lot of people on your list, so use your imagination and customize them for your holiday gift giving and receiving for 2011!

Give Pampering

Give a gift certificate to a spa for a day of relaxation, some yoga classes, a massage, or a manicure and pedicure to someone who could really use a little bliss more than another kitchen appliance. They will think about you and smile during the entire serene process!

Give Treats

Make or purchase very special treats that people often deny themselves. Be sensitive to dietary restrictions, but gourmet foods, rich chocolates, or elegant wines or champagne are great choices that won’t permanently fill a cabinet. Luxury personal care items make lovely gifts if you know what they enjoy and use. Save space, your budget, and the planet by minimizing wrapping.

Give Fun

Tickets or season passes to the symphony, local playhouses, sporting events, or a favorite movie theatre show you know what they love, and they won’t end up stacked in the garage! Or, how about tuition for a class? Maybe they always wanted to learn to salsa, speak Italian, or make jewelry - and you will long be remembered for making it happen.

Give Time

Hire a service to help out the stressed out. Engage a cleaning or lawn service for a one time or ongoing project, or purchase child or senior care services to give a respite to those with too many responsibilities. Get a mobile car care service to detail a vehicle at their home or office, or – my personal favorite – hire a professional organizer to help them re-claim their space and inner peace! Go to http://convenientlyorganized.com/home or call 501-620-0546 to request gift certificates.

Give Life

Supporting charities is a simple, significant way to share holiday spirit. For example, give meaningfully in the name of someone who already has much by purchasing an animal from Little Rock based Heifer International. These sustainable gifts provide training and self-reliance to those in need around the world. Go to Heifer.org to choose your special live gift. Or have a tree planted in your loved one’s honor at Arborday.org which even supplies the gift card.