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There are many ways to make Christmas merry and memorable. Unfortunately, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to feel the joy amid the cluttered maze that Christmas has become. Over the years, the holiday has strayed far from its original purpose and become a highly commercialized event.

Today, more people seem focused on finding the “perfect” gift or eagerly anticipating what they will receive rather than embracing the true spirit of the season. It’s time to return to basics. This year, make your Christmas joyous and stress-free by following these tips:

Give of yourself

The most meaningful gift you can give doesn’t come with a price tag – it’s your time. Whether or not you enjoy shopping for presents, avoid letting it dominate your holiday. Even if you can’t afford extravagant gifts, the act of giving your time and attention to others is priceless.

Here are some ways to give of yourself this season:

• Be a friend who listens
• Spend time with a loved one over coffee or a walk
• Help a neighbour with household chores or errands
• Offer to babysit for a parent who desperately needs a break
• Let others know they can count on you if they need help

If you want to do something truly meaningful, consider volunteering at a local food bank, shelter, or community organization. The gift of your time could make a significant difference to someone in need.

Use your talents

Homemade gifts carry a charm that store-bought items can’t match. They’re thoughtful, personal, and imbued with the love and effort you’ve put into them. While a store-bought gift can be appreciated, the unique touch of a handmade creation often resonates more deeply.

Here are some ideas for heartfelt, handmade gifts:

• Freshly baked cookies, pies or preserves – even a simple tin of shortbread can brighten someone’s day
• Hand-knit scarves or crocheted blankets to keep loved ones warm
• Framed photo collages or personalized scrapbooks that celebrate cherished memories
• Homemade jewellery crafted with your recipient’s favourite colours or styles in mind
• Creative DIY kits – assemble a hot chocolate station, complete with mugs, marshmallows and chocolate powder

If crafting isn’t your forte, consider offering a “gift of service” voucher – a promise to shovel a driveway, clean a home, or cook a special meal.

Cherish your time together

Time is one of the few things we can never reclaim. During the holiday season, it’s easy to lose track of it amidst the chaos of shopping, decorating, and meal preparations. Instead, make a conscious effort to prioritize time with loved ones.

Why endure packed malls when you could be enjoying a family day at home? Instead of spending hours searching for deals online, have a snowball fight, decorate the tree together, or watch a classic holiday movie.

Here are some ways to create meaningful moments:

• Plan baking sessions with family members, turning routine tasks into shared experiences
• Invite friends or neighbours over for a potluck instead of stressing about hosting a formal dinner
• Take an evening walk to enjoy the Christmas lights in your community
• Write and share holiday cards together as a family activity

This year, consider starting new traditions, such as a family game night, a charity drive, or a storytelling session about past Christmases. These rituals can become cherished memories for years to come.

The holiday season doesn’t have to be a blur of rushing, shopping, and over-stressing. By simplifying your approach and focusing on what truly matters – your relationships and the joy of giving – you can create a Christmas that’s merry, memorable, and meaningful.

Follow these suggestions, and this holiday season may just become the best one yet.

Faith Wood is a professional speaker, author, and certified professional behaviour analyst. Before her career in speaking and writing, she served in law enforcement, which gave her a unique perspective on human behaviour and motivations. Faith is also known for her work as a thriller and suspense novelist. Her background in law enforcement and understanding of human behaviour often play a significant role in her writing.

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