The stress of gift-giving is coming soon (if it’s not already arrived).  Christmas is not about how much money we spend or what we buy for the mailman, the garbage men, the lunch ladies, or every school teacher our children have ever had.  While there can be a lot of stress associated with gift-giving, studies have shown how thoughtful generosity boosts happiness. This is especially true when you throw a bit of creativity into the mix! Lutheran Family Service has a few tips to ease your gift-giving anxiety:

1. Consider the gift of time.

Spend some time with your loved ones rather than buying gifts that will require or tempt them to spend time alone (ie. electronics/technology). Focus on fostering connection through shared experiences and projects.

2. Write a short thank you!

Grab paper and pencil and jot down a note of gratitude. This is a great, personal way to bless someone during the Christmas season by making them feel appreciated – and it doesn’t stress your wallet!

3. Invite friends, family and neighbors to church.

What better way to spend the Christmas season than celebrating the Reason together?

4. DO something together.

Play a family game, do a family craft, plan and make a family dinner, go sledding, or go look at Christmas lights!

5. Try a White Elephant exchange or draw names.

No need to buy something for everyone. This is a great way to interact with a group of people without the stress of buying EVERYONE a gift!

6. Organize a neighborhood progressive dinner.

Have hot chocolate at Sally’s house, appetizers at Jim’s house, dinner at Matt’s house, and finish up with dessert at Trish’s house. This keeps everyone together, and you are spending time with one another, not money on a whole feast.

7. Think homemade.

Bake and deliver goodies, give coupons for babysitting or lawn mowing to someone who needs help, make Christmas ornaments for your family and friends…the list of possibilities is endless.

And always keep in mind that our gift giving is a mere reflection and celebration of God’s greatest give to us all: Jesus!

If you or someone you know would benefit from Christ-centered mental health counseling, refer to or contact us today.

• Call: 515-573-3138
• Email: [email protected]
• Web Form: http://lutheranfamilyservice.org/contact/

Lutheran Family Service walks with those experiencing difficult times through mental health counseling, marriage counseling, crisis pregnancy counseling, and adoption services.