You told us: how Positive News readers challenge rampant consumerism

you-told-us:-how-positive-news-readers-challenge-rampant-consumerism
You told us: how Positive News readers challenge rampant consumerism

This holiday season, instead of engaging in the typical consumerist mindset, readers of Positive News are choosing to celebrate differently. Families are creating new traditions that emphasize togetherness and kindness. For example, one family in Norwich, UK uses a reusable wooden advent calendar filled with personalized messages that encourage charitable donations and outdoor activities. Another family in Japan enjoys completing a jigsaw puzzle together. A third household joins in on the Icelandic tradition of Jolabokaflod, where they gift secondhand books and small treats to extended family members.

Many people are opting to support local artists and promote the economy by gifting tickets to live shows or events. Others are prioritizing nature by utilizing recyclable materials to decorate their homes or by celebrating winter solstice instead of Christmas. A significant number of respondents choose to give more meaningful gifts, such as handmade diaries or carefully curated vintage items, and to spend time with loved ones instead of buying excess presents.

Regarding purchases, some respondents make an effort to avoid impulse buying by asking themselves questions about the necessity and longevity of the item. They try to focus on buying experiences and memories instead of material goods. Others have a more planet-first approach, choosing to buy secondhand or sustainably-sourced items.

In sum, Positive News readers are choosing to be mindful during this holiday season and are creating traditions that prioritize their values of community, sustainability and togetherness

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