I am one of the best gift givers most of my friends and family members know. I pay attention to the little details and give small, generally inexpensive, thoughtful gifts. I also give very few gifts, often a single item. This reduces waste and clutter, often re-purposing something from a thrift store or sale store into something unique and new, and leaves the recipient with no obligations to me or to display or use the gift. A gift, once given, is for the recipient to do with as they choose.

This holiday season, and going forward, I encourage you to use the Rule of 4 when giving to those that you would usually give abundantly. A child loves a pile of presents, but only plays with a few and it feels like a waste of time, money, energy, and storage to have such overkill. Give thoughtfully, and consider:

Something he/she Wants

Something he/she Needs

Something to Wear

Something to Read

It’s good for the pocketbook, the environment, teaching people to value what they have, and keeping the place tidy.

Autumn Hahn is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist practicing at Clear Mind Group in Weston, Florida. Call 954-612-9553 for a consultation. Follow Autumn on Twitter, Facebook, and Google+. Sign up for the e-newsletter HERE.