Dear Just Be: Recently I downsized to a smaller home and don't have room for holiday gifts. What should I do?

The holidays are upon us and it means getting stuff….I mean gifts. Yes, it is the thought that counts but majority of the “gifts” we receive aren’t needed or used. Gifts go unopened and shoved into a dark closet or the corner of a closet never to be used or seen until spring cleaning or a move. Why live like this? Below are two tips to make your life a little easier this holiday season with the exchange of gifts.

1.) When asked what you want for the holidays be honest; if you don’t want or need anything, say so. If you know that this response will not be received well, then request edible items (restaurant gift cards, food of the month clubs, etc.) or ask for one big, expensive needed item that several people can go in on – there goes all the little gifts that you would be getting.

2.)Clean house before the holidays. Go to that dark corner or closet where you store your un-wanted/un-used gifts and donate them to charity. There is always someone else who can use and appreciate your old gifts. And don’t stop with the “gift closet,” go through the rest of your closets and rooms and find those items that just collect dust and give them away. You will be amazed by all the things you have collected and rarely or never use. Keep in mind, it took you years to collect all these items, so don’t think you can get rid of it in a day. This is a project that you can tackle throughout the year. Please, when donating items make sure they are in good condition.

Incorporating these tips into the holidays will help you physically by not tripping and fussing over un-wanted/un-used items, but mentally you will feel more relaxed and free. Our possessions carry a lot of emotional weight that can bog us down from enjoying our family, friends and life.