You only need to catch one episode of Storage Wars to you know that almost no-one needs more 'stuff'. Yet, the holidays loom and people expect gifts.
Why not pledge to give experiences, instead of stuff, this year. Since it's only November, there's still time to think about the ideal gifts for those on your list. Here are five categories to consider:
Art: Few people get to experience the joy of making something with their own hands. Opt for an art class and your gift recipient may discover a passion for ceramics, painting or textiles.
Music: Music can calm the soul, boost concentration and brain power and provide a brief, healthy escape from reality. Some gift possibilities include guitar lessons, passes to the botanical gardens, or tickets to see a favourite band.
The basics: Some people are really struggling in this economy. Provide for their needs in a way that won't cause discomfort. A gift card to an organic market could be a welcome present. So would a gift voucher for a meal at a local restaurant.
Services: Look for service providers in your neighbourhood and give friends and family a session with them. This could be a green cleaning service, a consultation with a professional organiser, or a dinner cooked by a personal chef.
Donations: If the gift supports the recipient's favourite cause, you just might end up being viewed as this year's most creative, thoughtful gift-giver. Plus, the recipient will never need to dust, store, or worse, re-gift your present.