With all the pressure to get the gift shopping done, you could be forgiven for feeling the urge to grab the car keys and head out to the shops, or to spend time at the keyboard checking online gift options.  But before you do…

Just like with meal planning or clothes or school supply shopping, it pays to take stock of what you need as well as what you already have on hand before going out to spend more money.

Before you even consider going out or online, have a clear idea of who you really need to buy for. Make a list of all the people you need to give a gift to. Remember that some people will prefer the gift of your time.

Now take stock of your supplies at home. Start by checking in all the places you keep gifts “for later” or “just in case”.  Now make a list of all the inventory.  Against that list, can you make allocations to people you normally give to?

My guess is, if you are like most people, that you already have a stash of gifts you’ve purchased over the year(s) and kept safe.

Likely there will be gifts left unallocated.  Unless you have bought them with some person or occasion in particular in mind, consider donating them.  Local shopping centres have giving trees.  You could wrap those unallocated gifts and have the joy of giving, even if you don’t know the recipient.

And here’s the thing – if you don’t give them this Christmas, ask yourself when will be the right time?  What are you waiting for?

When you’re shopping, avoid those impulse purchases by taking your list of people to buy for with you, and checking your list twice.

It doesn’t matter how pretty that boxed set of perfume/books/stationery is, if it doesn’t suit someone on your list, don’t buy it!

Christmas shoppingSo, today’s message is

  1. Make a list
  2. Keep it handy
  3. Shop at home first
  4. Don’t be tempted to buy if it’s not on your list
  5. Donate the unused gift hoard

© Hoarding Home Solutions by Off the Page

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