Are You Applying KonMari Method To Gifting?
The KonMari approach to decluttering is simple, look at each item and ask “Does it spark joy?”; if it does not then either donate or give away or throw away depending on the condition.
With all the KonMari frenzy, I want to apply the principal to gifting giving and gift receiving.
Finding that meaningful, perfect gift is hard. It takes time; time that is in short supply. Extrapolating/extending Marie Kondo’s approach to gifting, gift giving should spark joy, not evoke anxiety. We spend hours looking for something based on our own lifestyle and choices and end up gifting something that the recipient may not even use. When considering gifts, my recommendation is to give experiences and services from local merchants as gifts. This reduces clutter for the recipient and also the recipient can enjoy the experience or service without thinking about refitting, storing or returning.
1. For loved ones in your life, think of their personality, lifestyle, things they like and dislike and buy them something that would spark joy in their life. With 40% of gifts being returned, I believe gifting experiences and services that build memories is a better bet.
2. For people you do not know that well, the normal fall back option is to give a gift card. However, approximately $50 Billion worth of gift cards are sitting unused since 2008 and if they expire the entire amount or large portion is lost. Why not give them a DIY class, wine tasting or theatre tickets.
3. To avoid any confusion, why not ask the person what they like or want and then get something from wish list or list of favorite merchants.
You can apply the same logic when receiving gifts- what will spark joy in my life. In a culture where we share so much information about ourselves and our family life on social media, our personal moments; why hesitate to share what we want as a gift. We know that our loved ones are going to buy something for us on special occasions. Wouldn’t it be nice if we make their and our own life easier by simply sharing our wish list with them?
Declutter your life; build better relationships. Just apply KonMarie method to gifting.
This article is written by Shelly Gupta for GiftVolo. GiftVolo enables busy professionals to send thoughtful, curated, everyday services to loved ones in 3 clicks. By sending local services as gifts we not only support sustainable living but also promote local commerce.
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