Most minimalists do not want or need gifts. But our culture is one of gift giving. Christmas, birthdays and other holidays are a time when many people feel the need to give and receive gifts.
Minimalists are very thoughtful about the items they bring into their home. We strive for simplicity and a clutter free life so it can be tricky to navigate the gift giving tradition.
Be honest
If someone is giving you a gift, chances are they know you well enough for you to be honest with them. Those people would probably know that you are a minimalist. You can talk to them and explain why you do not wish to receive gifts. Most minimalists are also frugal and many choose not to give gifts. Talk to them before the gift giving begins.
If it is someone that you have exchanged gifts with in the past explain to them that because you are a minimalist and striving to be frugal you no longer wish to take part in gift exchanges. People who truly care for you will understand.
Gifts for your children
When children are involved Grandparents and others may feel the need to shower the children with gifts on every occasion. Some may not even need an occasion, they may buy toys and other items for no reason except they just enjoy giving the children presents. Again, honesty is the best policy. Explain that your children do not need a lot of toys and other items and that you are teaching them the benefits of minimalism. Limit it to only special holidays and limit the number of gifts your child is permitted to receive. You can put together a list of things that your children really want or need. Most people would appreciate this because it is often hard to decide what gift to give someone. A list makes it easy because they know the person receiving the gift will use and appreciate it. You can also ask that instead of a gift that they put the money they would have spent in a savings or investment account for the child. Or you can suggest they do something special with the child. A trip to the zoo, park, movie theatre or museum. A dinner out or some other activity that both would enjoy. Limiting the number of gifts a child receives helps them to appreciate what they do get and helps them to understand that things don’t buy happiness. More is not necessarily better.
For those who persist
Even after explaining your gift giving philosophy there may be some who continue to give gifts. In that situation you can request a specific gift such as a donation to a charity, a gift card, a dinner out with the person, a trip to a museum or other place you enjoy, or just spending time with that person. Let them know that experiences, not material gifts are more important you to.
Giving gifts
If you are in a situation where you feel the need to give a gift, ask the person for a list of items they would like. Weddings, bridal and baby showers are often easier as almost everyone uses an online gift registry now.
What to do with unwanted gifts
Often, we feel the need to keep a gift even if it is something we will never use or do not want. Understand that it is ok to give something away and not feel guilty about it. Once a gift is given it is ours to decide what we want to do with it.
Write a thank you note for the gift to show your appreciation and then let it go. Don’t waste any time feeling guilty. That serves no purpose.
So, what can we do with gifts we have been given that we do not need or will not use?
Donate them to someone who can use them. Goodwill, nursing homes, schools, libraries, friends and family. It depends on the type of gift, but you can almost always find someone who could use it.
Minimalism can be a hard concept for some people to comprehend, especially if they don’t practice it themselves and understand the benefits of a simple lifestyle. There will still be family and friends who insist on giving gifts. You cannot make everyone understand but now you have a way to deal with the unwanted items.
The Tech Minimalist 