The holiday season is known for spreading joy, warmth, and love, but let’s be honest, gift-giving can sometimes feel more like a chore than a celebration. While there’s plenty of evidence that generosity boosts happiness, the demands of shopping, wrapping, and organizing can be overwhelming. Moms, anyone?
Gratitude, derived from the Latin ‘gratia’ (meaning grace or gratefulness), involves recognizing and appreciating the goodness in life, whether tangible or intangible. Research in positive psychology consistently links gratitude to greater happiness, as it fosters positive emotions, enhances well-being, helps in overcoming adversity, and strengthens relationships. Gratitude can be directed toward the past (positive memories), present (appreciating current blessings), and future (hopeful optimism). It encourages a focus on what we have rather than what we lack, and with practice, it becomes a stronger, more natural mindset, leading to deeper contentment and resilience.
If you want to embrace the joy of giving without succumbing to sadness, anxiety, or depression, here are six mindful strategies to make this season merrier and less maddening.
- Be Intentional: Start Early and Be Thoughtful
Gift-giving is a skill that gets better with practice. Start early and be intentional. If you spot the perfect gift for someone in July, grab it then! Michael Norton, a professor at Harvard, explains, “The more habitually we think about others throughout the year, the less likely we’ll be scrambling come December.” When you plan ahead, the holidays become less about the rush and more about the joy of giving.
- Create Rituals Around Shopping and Wrapping
Holiday traditions can transform the mundane into something magical. Take inspiration from those who make shopping and wrapping a memorable event. Dedicate one special day to shopping, turning it into a festive outing with your friends or family. Make a gift party wrapping, where the task of wrapping presents becomes a social and enjoyable experience. These small rituals not only make the process fun but also create lasting memories.
- Give Experiences, Not Just Things
Struggling to find the perfect gift? Shift your focus to experiences. Dacher Keltner, a psychology professor at UC Berkeley, highlights that experiential gifts; like show tickets, park passes, or a museum membership are often more meaningful because they reflect the relationship between the giver and the receiver. Even charitable donations in someone’s name can carry deep significance. After all, the thought and personal connection matter more than the gift itself.
- Be Present When They Open It
A heartfelt reaction to a gift can amplify the joy of giving. Some people prefer to see the other person’s response when they open a gift. If distance separates you, consider Facetiming during the unwrapping. Sharing that moment, even virtually, adds a special layer to the experience and makes the act of giving feel more magical.
- Reconnect with the Why Behind Giving
Feeling burnt out by the holiday rush? Pause and remember why you’re giving. This season is an opportunity to show love, gratitude, and appreciation for the important people in your life. Elissa Epel, a stress researcher at UC San Francisco, reminds us that prosocial acts are not only good for relationships but also for our health. When you focus on the deeper meaning, the stress starts to melt away.
- Take a Mindfulness Minute
Holiday stress can spiral into materialism and anxiety over costs. When that happens, take a moment to ground yourself. Researchers suggest reconnecting with nature, breathe in for four seconds, out for six, and immerse yourself in your surroundings. This simple mindfulness practice can quickly reduce holiday stress.
The Ripple Effect of Kindness
One of the most beautiful aspects of giving is its contagious nature. Studies show that generosity inspires reciprocity, forming a foundation for healthy relationships. When surrounded by generosity, we naturally become more giving ourselves.
This holiday season, let the spirit of giving bring you closer to those you love. By approaching gift-giving with mindfulness, intention, and joy, you’ll create a season filled with warmth and connection—exactly what the holidays are meant to be.
Reference
https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/giving-thanks-can-make-you-happier
https://www.templeton.org/news/give-well-feel-great-the-science-of-gift-giving-and-receiving
