Do you want to do Christmas differently but don’t know how to change your family tradition of expensive or excessive gift giving? Christmas and the holiday season can be a challenging time for many.

Often we continue doing things the same way because that’s what we’ve always done. How about introducing some Christmas innovations that’ll bring back the fun factor and rest the purse strings? Innovating on Christmas doesn’t have to cost much, in fact it could save you time and money.

Innovate with Family Traditions

Many people are experimenting with Christmas these days, even though changing family habits can be like trying to get a bone off a Pit-Bull—not likely! But other times it just takes someone saying, “Hey, let’s do something different!”

Canvass Your Idea

Changing family traditions often takes time. Try canvassing your innovative idea with family members first. I know a family where someone proposed a less expensive gift-giving approach. It was initially voted down but two years later was adopted by all. It’s like initiating cultural change in the workplace and is based on similar principles: plan well, communicate openly, make sure it’s supported by all and give it time to work.

Non Material Gift-Giving Ideas

Wouldn’t it be great to cut down on shopping, wrapping and delivering piles of gifts and prevent your credit card from skyrocketing? What about some non-material gifts? Here are some ideas:

• Write in a card something you appreciate or admire about each other.
• How about no presents for all those over 25? Just handshakes and hugs.
• Pool your present money and donate it as a family to a worthy cause.
• Do a round-robin where everyone says one thing they hope to achieve in the coming year. You might learn something about each other’s aspirations.
• Share something you each achieved in the year gone by that you’re proud of. This is an opportunity to hear what’s important in each other’s lives.
• Instead of giving presents, how about going to a concert together?
• Share one happy family memory each, something you once did as a family that has always stayed with you.
• How about having all adults receive one special gift each, chipped in by all and organised by one person?
• Give kisses and wishes.

Have a wonderful holiday season!