Experiences, Not Things

Do you have gads of storage space in your home? Empty shelves lining the walls? Time to change outfits several times a day and rotate all of your stuff every day so it all gets seen?

I'm guessing the answer to all of these questions is a resounding no. I don't either.

But these are our default options when we're shopping for gifts. We opt out of being creative and go with the same things we always get - for better or worse.

Would you rather have stuff to show or memories to share at this time next year?

What would happen if you gave your loved ones the opportunity to collect moments instead of dust-catchers? What would be better than a full photo album or scrapbook next December?

As you're brainstorming last-minute gift ideas this week, steer clear of the normal, the advertised and the typical. Don't give stuff - we all have enough stuff. Too much stuff. An overflowing amount of stuff.

Instead, think about experiences. Shared experiences. Memorable experiences.

* Season passes to a favorite venue
* Tickets to a special event or show
* Classes to learn a new skill
* Lessons in a fun new activity
* Family travel to look forward to

Make this a memorable, exciting, one-of-a-kind Christmas morning. Give them something to look forward to, plan for and remember for the rest of their lives.

And it's something you won't have to dust. Ever.

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