Making the Holidays Meaningful Without Overspending
“Some of the gifts I treasure most have been heartfelt or practical rather than elaborate.”
The holidays come with a mix of joy, anticipation, and pressure. We want to give thoughtfully and make the season special, yet it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the idea that the "perfect" gift must be impressive or expensive. Over time, I have learned that meaning often comes from simplicity. Some of the gifts I treasure most have been heartfelt or practical rather than elaborate.
Some of my favorite presents, both given and received, have been small gestures rooted in care. My boys often write sweet birthday messages that mean as much to me as anything wrapped in a box. For a close friend group, when each of us turned forty, we created jars filled with "40 reasons we love you." For my wedding, my best friend coordinated a book of date night ideas with photos. These thoughtful gifts have stayed with me long after the celebrations ended.
I have also loved giving meaningful gifts that feel personal without being costly. We once had a photo of my in-laws' former home turned into a simulated painting. Another year, I created custom mousepads for my team featuring their passion statements. And one of my favorite gifts from my son Alex was when he noticed I had been carrying a reusable shopping bag as my gym bag. He picked out a purple one, my favorite color, and even measured the old one to match the size. None of these gifts were expensive, yet each was deeply personal.
As the holiday season approaches, it helps to pause and ask what we are really trying to give. Often the goal is not a physical item but connection, intention, or a shared moment. When we let go of pressure and choose with thoughtfulness, the season feels lighter.
Meaningful gifts do not have to be costly. A framed photo or photo-to-art print can honor a favorite memory. Homemade treats or family recipes can feel sentimental. A curated playlist or planning a shared walk, coffee date, or simple outing can make someone feel seen and valued.
On the receiving side, practical gifts often bring daily joy. Sometimes it is replacing a can opener that never works (a real ask on my husband's wish list) or updating towels and everyday tools that have long passed their prime. A favorite moisturizer, a new phone case or watch band, or a work or workout bag you will use constantly can be far more appreciated than a trendy item. There is also nothing wrong with asking for a gift card to a favorite restaurant or coffee spot, especially when it helps lighten your weekly load.
Similarly, experiences often feel more valuable to me than accumulating things. As my boys have grown, my gift-giving style has shifted. During holidays I try to keep things simple and meaningful, often choosing gifts they will use such as movie passes or Six Flags season tickets. Throughout the year, I also try to create shared experiences with them, like our one-on-one trips. Those memories mean far more than anything I could have wrapped under the tree.
Simplifying gift giving is not about restriction. It is about reducing overwhelm and choosing what aligns with your values. Importantly, prosperity is not measured by how much we spend but by how intentionally we use our resources. Thoughtful giving can create joy without the stress of overspending, especially for parents who may feel pressure to stretch beyond their means. As you move into the holiday season, consider how you can make gift giving memorable without going over budget. Sometimes the most cherished gifts are practical, personal, or shared.
This post is part of the ongoing series inspired by The Four Facets of Better Living: physical wellness, personal relationships, professional purpose, and prosperity habits. If you would like to learn more or be notified about the next Resilience for Progress retreat, visit the Contact Us form to express your interest.