The holiday season is a wonderful time, but it is not without challenges and big feelings too. In the spirit of celebrating the true meaning of the holiday season, let’s consider some ways to bring order to our holiday planning and give generously in the process.
We’re just borrowing the “12 days” hook for this one, but these suggestions are my gift to you. This thoughtful and festive approach combines organization tips with acts of generosity, perfect for spreading holiday cheer while tidying up.
Day 1: Deck the Halls Without the Stress.
Organize your holiday decorations by theme, color, or space. Donate decorations you no longer use to someone in need of festive cheer. Sort through your decorations and keep only what you truly love. Donate gently used décor to a community center or a family in need.
Day 2: Gift Wrap Station Makeover.
Organize your wrapping supplies into bins or caddies for easy access. I love a gift wrap cart on wheels. Share extra wrapping paper or unused supplies with local schools or libraries.
Day 3: Pantry Purge with a Purpose.
Declutter expired pantry items and organize staples for holiday cooking. Donate unopened, non-perishable items to a local food pantry.
Day 4: Closet Clear-Out for Cold Weather Holiday Giving.
Go through winter clothes, keeping only what fits and brings joy. Donate coats, scarves, and warm clothing to a homeless shelter or coat drive.
Day 5: Create a Calm and Cozy Guest Space.
Prepare your guest room or space with essentials like fresh linens, toiletries, books, and open storage. Offer unused travel-sized items to shelters or donation centers.
Day 6: Sort Seasonal Servingware.
Organize your kitchen and keep only the dishes and utensils you use. Donate extra serving platters, utensils, or appliances to shelters or soup kitchens.
Day 7: Gift a Clutter-Free Experience.
Organize your gift-giving to focus on non-material gifts like tickets, memberships, or lessons. Encourage others to consider experience-based gifts to reduce unnecessary clutter.
Day 8: Organize and Share Books.
Declutter bookshelves by sorting books you no longer read or need. Donate books to libraries, schools, your own guest rooms or Little Free Libraries in your area.
Day 9: Organize Pet Supplies with Purpose.
Sort through your pet’s toys, leashes, and accessories. Donate extra pet supplies to a local animal shelter.
Day 10: Organize Holiday Cards and Memories.
Sort through cards, keepsakes, and family photos from past holidays. Create a digital slideshow or share memory albums with loved ones.
Day 11: A Family Day of Holiday Giving.
Spend the day organizing a giving project, like preparing care packages or volunteering as a family. Use this time to reflect on what you’re grateful for and create lasting memories.
Day 12: Reflect and Plan for an Organized New Year.
Review what you’ve organized and accomplished this season. Create a simple plan for maintaining order and continuing acts of giving throughout the year.
If you’ve found some items to declutter during this season of giving, I encourage you to check out my Resources Page for local and national donation and recycling programs. Whether you're donating clothing, electronics, or household goods, many wonderful organizations can help ensure your items find a new life and your contributions foster a positive impact within our communities.
Remember that in addition to the personal meanings of holidays to all of us, the holidays are also meant for family (natural and chosen), friends and making memories together. I hope this helps you get into the giving and receiving spirit.
Happy holidays to each and every one of you.
Get your house in Good Order, and follow me on Instagram and Facebook (@goodorderllc) for inspiration. Subscribe to my blog for more tips like these.
— SCG
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