It’s the most wonderful time of the year. But, it’s also the most expensive time of the year. Everywhere around us, people are overdoing it with their shopping, their cookie baking, and the amount they decorate their homes. It seems like every time we step into a store we are bombarded with even more beautiful decorations that we want but don’t need. So, what are some easy ways you can tone down your decorating this year without spoiling the Christmas fun? We have some ideas for you.
Don’t Stress Yourself Out
I know that there may be decorations that you have put up for years that are part of your family’s Christmas traditions. However, why put yourself through the hassle of stringing lights or putting up wreaths if they aren’t ultimately going to bring you joy. This year, just put up the decorations you actually want to and enjoy. Don’t put up the elaborate decorations that always cause you to fight with your spouse just because you always do it. If you can’t find a better reason to put up a decoration besides its tradition, you may need to reevaluate your priorities.
Don’t Let Other People Guilt You
This can be a lot more difficult if you live in a neighborhood. As soon as December 1st hits, it’s a mad rush to see who can get their lights and decorations up first. But, don’t let your neighbors stress you out. Try your hardest not to turn everything into a competition. Christmas is supposed to be a joyful time of year, not a jealous time of year. If you have decided to simplify your decorating this year, don’t change your mind when you see what your neighbors are doing. You can still enjoy their lights, even if you have decided not to put any up yourself.
Get The Tree
The one staple I would discourage you from getting rid of this Christmas is simple, the tree. The Christmas tree is the hallmark and foundation that every family needs every Christmas. It doesn’t matter if it’s real or fake, 10ft tall or on a table top, but make sure you have something. After all, what will you put all your presents under? This is a tradition that can involve your whole family and will make it feel like Christmas around your house.
Get Rid Of What You Don’t Use
As you are going through your boxes of decorations trying to figure out what to put out, get rid of the things you don’t. I know that I have entire boxes and bags of old decorations that I refuse to throw away, but that I never actually end up using. Be honest with yourself as you get rid of and put out decorations this year. Get a friend, spouse, or child to help you go through the decorations you do have. They may help point out the things that you can let go of.
Buy One New Decoration Each Year
I know that this might sound counter-intuitive since we are talking about getting rid of decorations, but hear me out. With the temptation that plagues us every time that we walk into a Target or TJ Maxx, it’s going to be hard to resist not buying anything new. So, instead of avoiding stores and decorations like the plague, allow your budget to have space for a new decoration. Because you are only buying one thing, you may be able to splurge more than you normally would and not have to feel guilty. Adding that new piece to your house each year will bring you joy, your pocketbook joy, and your storage bins joy.
Don’t Overcrowd The House
Especially if you have small children, having too many decorations out can just become hazardous. Kids can run into things, break things, and move things around. Having too many decorations may seem like a great idea to get everyone in the holiday spirit, but may end up being a mess. Be smart with how you place things around your house. Put items that are more breakable up high away from kids and pets. Be gracious when things do break, or the house is messy. Let yourself enjoy the holidays with your family instead of rushing to fix every Santa figurine, so they are facing just the right way.
Decorating is an essential and fun part of the Christmas season. But, it doesn’t need to add stress or complicate your life. I hope that these tips can help you as you look to choose simple over stressful in decorating this Christmas.
