We have all experienced the frustration of buying gifts for people throughout the year and then forgetting where we put them. Many of us have also endured the shame of having someone buy you a gift and you totally forgot to get them one in return. These are not pleasant feelings... but there is a simple solution to getting and staying organized for the holidays.
Making A List...
First, sit down at your computer and make a list of everyone you buy gifts for throughout the year – think about birthdays, anniversaries, holidays and any other celebrations you enjoy with family and friends. Write it all down, print a copy and save the file for your future reference.
You may want to set aside a particular time of year to ensure that your list has not changed with births, deaths or other changes that will alter your list contents.
It's All About The Box
Now, designate a closet shelf or two to be your holiday organization center. Gather one box or bag for each name on your list and write one name on each box/bag.
This box or bag is where you will keep any gifts that you buy for that person throughout the year. As soon as a gift is purchased, it goes into the box or bag until it is to be given to its recipient.
If you buy gifts for mulitiple holidays for a person, you may want to either put a sticky note on the item to designate which holiday the item is for (if it matters) or you may want to get a box or bag for each occasion if space permits.
Of course, if you are doing this for family members, you may have to be creative so they don't find their goodies ahead of time!
...And Checking It Twice
Now that you have completed some of your holiday shopping, simply go back to your list and cross off names and occasions so you know at a moment's notice what you have bought and what you still need to purchase. Alternatively, some people prefer to write what they bought for their family member or friend on the list next to their name and check it off instead.
Keep a copy of this updated list in your wallet so that when you go shopping and stop to wonder if good old Uncle Jim already has a present from you at home, you will know immediately.
The benefits of using a 'list and box' system are many – including saving time, money and effort when it comes to holiday shopping. Try out this system for yourself and see how easy holiday shopping can be!
