Wallet Activism Book Launch and Redefining Holiday Traditions
Wallet Activism is officially available! You can discover more about the book here, place your order here, and share which parts resonate most with you on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook. If you purchase the book this week in any format and email your receipt to walletactivism[at]gmail.com, you’ll receive an invitation to join this Saturday’s launch party at 9 AM PT. This event is an excellent chance to interact and have your questions answered live. Please also consider attending one of the many free events happening this and the following weeks.
Today’s Post: Practicing Wallet Activism Through Gift-Giving
A recent visit to World Market for holiday shopping made it clear: people are well aware of supply chain issues, prompting many to shop early. While this might secure that perfect gift, there is also a powerful alternative that aligns with wallet activism—transforming your gift-giving traditions.
Change the Tradition
Traditional gift-giving often leads to excessive spending on newly manufactured goods, which isn’t sustainable. The current supply chain crisis offers an ideal excuse to revamp how you celebrate. For example, our family once enjoyed a no-spend Christmas, which fundamentally changed our approach to holiday gifts, focusing on necessities and handcrafted items. Read more about our experience here.
Utilize Wish Lists
Wish lists can ensure gifts are both wanted and practical. They relieve the giver from the pressure of finding the ‘perfect’ item and help curb unnecessary purchases. You might consider setting modest limits or opting for experience-based gifts over physical items to further reduce impact.
Rethink Your Requests
Encouraging your circle to request practical or secondhand gifts can shift norms. One year, I asked for reusable glass spray bottles and cotton cloths, pushing our family towards more sustainable practices. This year, exploit the prevalent shortages as a reason to request items that support a less consumer-driven holiday.
Change How You Shop
Explore secondhand options or digital gifts that avoid physical production. Services or experiences, like an online class or event tickets, can also be fantastic gifts that leave a lighter footprint. For a unique twist on gift-giving, check out the SoKind registry, a platform for non-traditional gifts including secondhand items and personal services.
If revitalizing your holiday traditions through wallet activism appeals to you but you suspect resistance, simply "blame it on the supply chain". This year presents a compelling shot to shift away from conventional consumer practices without missing the spirit of giving.
Engage and Discuss
Loved this content or have thoughts? Connect with us on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook to continue the conversation. Thanks for your engagement and happy sustainable holiday planning!
