Giving and receiving gifts is a highlight of the holiday season. But sometimes, worries about material items, gift budgets, and possessions can distract us from the true meaning of the holidays. Choosing to refocus on experience and relationships can renew your perspective of the holidays and make this time of year so much more meaningful.
If you want to focus on your loved ones and the memories you’ll create with them this year, you’re in the right place. We’ve gathered some tips and ideas to help you and your spouse get started. Let’s take a look.
Focus on Connections With Your Loved Ones
Connections with your loved ones are precious. You’ve spent your life making memories with them and sharing pivotal experiences. The holidays offer a great opportunity to reconnect with these people who have been present during defining moments of your life.
Sit down with your spouse and talk about the relationships you’d like to better nurture – starting with one another. Then, make a list of the loved ones who have meant so much to you. Share your lists with one another, as well as special memories with these individuals.
Next, talk about how you might both be able to strengthen your bonds with these loved ones. Maybe you send a letter, give them a call, or go to visit. Consider the ways you can refresh those important connections.
Select Fewer, More Meaningful Gifts
You don’t have to eliminate gifts from the holidays to focus more on relationships. For many people, gift-giving is a way to communicate love. This year, why not focus on giving fewer, yet more meaningful gifts to one another?
Start with one another. What kind of gifts would be extra meaningful to your spouse? What would you prefer to receive from them? Take your time to think it over, and communicate openly with each other. Then, you can do the same kind of intentional, thoughtful gifting for your loved ones.
Gift Experiences Rather Than Things
If you’d rather take a break from gifting things, what about gifting experiences? On a smaller scale, you and your spouse can consider what kind of experiences you might enjoy. How about a concert, a weekend getaway, or a bigger trip you’ve always wanted to go on?
For a larger group, such as extended family, maybe you could use your gift budget to hold a memorable holiday celebration. Or, maybe there’s a local event or tradition you might enjoy experiencing together. Think about all the possibilities, and enjoy putting your heads together. You might be surprised at the fun, memorable ideas you come up with.
Spend Time on Gratitude, Nostalgia, and Making New Memories
Finally, spend some time focusing on gratitude and nostalgia. It’s always the right time to focus on what you’re grateful for. Plus, nostalgic memories can help you feel more connected to those you care about.
Set a goal to make new memories with your loved ones. If you can do that through special experiences, even better! Spend a little time dreaming up ideas with your spouse, and then put those plans into action.
How do you and your spouse strengthen your relationships and make memories during the holidays? Share your experiences in the comments below.
