The Minimal(ish) Mom and The Holidays

The holidays and all the chaos, excitement, abundance of food, and overload of presents can be a bit triggering to those who try and live a more minimal lifestyle. Myself included!

The reason I use (ish) in the title of this blog post is because minimalism can look different to different people. Some people simply try and incorporate more intention behind their spending, while others literally have only the basics (and are perhaps even living in a tiny home or van somewhere desolate).

Minimalism can be: reducing excess belongings, being intentional about who and what you bring into your life, saying 'no' without guilt, reducing mental clutter (think drama-free choices), fewer impulse buys, being more intentional about your time, deleting apps or other digital clutter from your phone, incorporating open spaces in your home, choosing neutral colors, or simply just bringing more 'experiences' vs. 'physical objects' into your life.

I've been researching and practicing minimalism for the past 7 years. I started by simply by watching 'minimalism videos' on YouTube. Then -began reading books, watching documentaries, joining 'Minimal Mom' groups online and listening to interesting podcasts on the subject. All of which came to the same conclusion. Living minimally creates more calm, improves mood and energy, gives you more time for what's important, improves relationships, and helps you to figure out what matters most.

Besides that, it helps our environment and future generations (because trust me- no one wants to inherit all your shit)! I personally started out small (left a donation bag in a couple areas of my home to add to). To

choosing bigger changes- (living below my means to live debt free), getting rid of items every time I purchase something new, and even giving up alcohol (because hangovers were time I couldn't get back).

But here's the thing- I still want to create that 'magic' during the holidays for my daughter! ✨ And that 'magic' looks different for every family. For me, there was always something magical about sneaking downstairs to find a load of presents under the tree, eating too many treats (that we didn’t normally have), and decorating too much (think overly crowded Christmas tree with LOTS of tinsel).

And, (despite my minimalist choices), I don't want my daughter to not experience those same joys I did growing up. Because I look back now, and they're some my favorite memories!

So- here are 5 things that I do each holiday season (that may help you) to keep the magic AND the minimalism!

1. Toy Purge right before Christmas

   I let my daughter know that we are donating a bag or two of items to others in need (to bring joy to them). She usually hops on board and helps me get a bag of toys she no longer plays with.

2. Start shopping early

   I'm over impulse buys, so I try to be pretty mindful about what I do buy (to make sure they are truly things wanted or needed). So, I start shopping early to give myself time to think. I even wrap presents early too (so I don't have to rush and can enjoy other parts of the holidays).

3. Make a list to give others' ideas

There will always be family members/friends/co-workers who like to surprise you with gifts, but there will likely be equally as many who ask you what you want. Be ready with ideas (including experiences)!

4. Do something to help others

Donate unwanted items, volunteer somewhere, give back! Anytime we do this we are living with more intentionality. In the past, we've sponsored a family, simply just donated a bag of toys, volunteered, or even lead a fundraising event. Anytime you give back, know you're leading with intention!

5. Lighten up on yourself and do what's best for you!

It's the season of giving and magic. The key word is season. So, whatever traditions are important to YOU and your family- do them! Big, small, or in between. The biggest take- a-way is remember that the holidays will later be a memory. SO, give yourself permission to make them special (however that looks to you)! And lighten up on yourself.

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