If you are tempted by Black Friday deals, think about what you really want and need in your life.
- More stuff?
- More debt?
- More work to pay for it all?
- More stress and exhaustion?
The thrill of your one day deal will wear off much faster than the side effects that go with it. According to http://stayintheblackfriday.com, 133.7 million people shopped on Black Friday weekend in 2014 (that’s 57% of American Adults). They spent $50.9 Billion (to put this in perspective, it would cost the government $20 billion to end homelessness).
If that’s not shocking enough, check out this statistic from Simple Dollar, “As of early 2015, the total outstanding consumer debt in the U.S. has risen to $3.34 trillion. That figure includes car loans, credit card debt, personal loans, and student loan debt — but not mortgage debt. (That would add another $8 trillion to the pile.)”
With these numbers, cutting back is not an option. It’s time for a full stop. Take a stand and think about how you really want to spend your time. Not just the time on Black Friday, but time you won’t have to spend paying for a bunch of stuff you won’t care about it a few months. Try one of these 10 better ways to do Black Friday.
1. Digital detox.
Break up with your phone and computer for the whole day. This will help.
2. Learn the true cost of fast fashion.
Watch the documentary, The True Cost to really understand the impact of fast fashion on people and the planet.
3. Host a clothing swap.
Invite your friends to come over with clothes they aren’t wearing anymore. Agree to donate anything that doesn’t get swapped.
4. Holiday movie marathon.
We always wait until after Thanksgiving to start watching our favorite holiday movies. Stay in for the day with a warm blanket and your favorite holiday flicks.
5. Talk about better gifts.
If you want to cut back on the holiday gift giving and receiving, have gentle conversations with people you usually exchange gifts with. Ask them if instead of your typical exchange if you could give something more meaningful, like a monthly lunch date, weekend excursion, or donation to a cause you both care about.
6. Get outside.
Go for a walk, or a hike. Notice the crisp air, falling leaves, or beautiful sunshine depending on your surroundings.
7. Start a morning routine.
Implement a new morning routine or another self-care practice to really take care of yourself during the holidays.
8. 31 days of gifts you so deserve.
This daily inbox advent calendar will help you engage in the best parts of this magical time of year. Learn more here.
9. Make a donation.
Give your money, time and talent to an organization you care about. I love contributing to The Loveland Foundation and Together Rising.
10. Do nothing.
This may be the busiest time of year for you. Imagine a whole day of doing absolutely nothing.
