How to get through Christmas without consumerism
How I did it: 1. First of all, I was unemployed! A lack of cash is a HUGE motivator to avoid the mall in December! I had 2 choices, buy gifts and go into debt OR find another way to celebrate the holidays!
2. Don't feel obligated! Refuse! If someone buys you a gift, it is their choice! Don't feel you must buy someone something because they are getting You a gift! Jesus didn't give the 3 wise men anything!
3. On Christmas Day, when you are at your in-laws' and you are opening gifts, HAVE FUN! After the gift giving, Thank each and every person for getting the gift for you. Look them in the eye and mean it!
4. If you REALLY want to GIVE, give things to people you already own! I was really afraid to try this, but it worked. My sister and bro-in-law just moved into a new home. Their home office is FREEZING! I had a space heater collecting dust.... WALLAH! Instant free gift!... worth over $60.00 I might add!
5. I bought a Ticketmaster gift card for my father last year. He didn't use it! SO... I gave it to my aunt! WALLAH!
6. I did spend $$$ on one person this year... my boyfriend! He and I get Soul Readings from an amazing psychic and astrologist! The reading was around $100. No gift wrap. Would you pay $100.00 to know who you were in past lives???!!! I would! And trust me, this gift is invaluable to him!!!
7. Finally, YOU ARE NOT a representation of the gifts you do or do not buy for Christmas. If you are broke or you just don't feel like feeding the XMAS MACHINE every year... You will wake up on December 26th and feel better about keeping cash in your pocket (or going to your bills!) and wrapping paper out of the landfills!
Lessons & tips: * You are NOT your christmas gifts!
* You can change the meaning of Christmas for you and your loved ones!
* Just decide to do it... and DO IT! If you're feeling strong, go to the mall and window shop! If you are feeling like the XMAS MACHINE will work you, don't even leave the house!
Resources: I googled info about having a "free christmas" and such.
