Simplify Your Celebration Without Losing the Meaning

Holidays tend to be full of activity and certain ways of celebrating that are part of family tradition. These can be special, but exhausting. How might you simplify your celebration in a way that can still be meaningful!

What part of your traditions mean the most to you? Write down everything you usually do to prepare for the holiday. Number them according to what means the most to you down to what is ok, but not necessary.

What would you be willing to let go of? Could some of the traditions be simplified, yet still be meaningful?

Of course, the decision to let go of a tradition or simplify your celebration needs to be a decision that is made by all involved. But, if you can suggest something that will replace an elaborate (and likely expensive) activity with something that keeps the meaning while saving energy and resources, you might find that others are ready for a change as well.

What are the activities that draw the most participation? Maybe there’s a way to bring a fresh energy to a familiar activity. For example, putting a puzzle together can be even more fun when it’s a family picture or a special pet. 

Draw on your imagination.

• Have everyone create Orgami-stars that can hang on the tree.
• Create a collage of family pictures that depict what was most memorable from the past year.
• Try a new recipe.

Ask others what they suggest.

Keep the fun and the sharing, while breathing new life into a long-held tradition.