Like most other things in life, the way we view Christmas changes tremendously as we grow older. I think it’s safe to say that, as children, Christmas was nothing more than a time to watch holiday specials, play in the snow, and, of course, open the presents that have been left under the tree by old Saint Nicholas. While I certainly love these first two activities as much as the next person, it’s the third one that has changed for me. Now I’m not saying that I no longer enjoy unwrapping presents, it’s just not the main attraction of Christmas for me anymore.

I know it’s really cliche to say, but now that I’m an adult (mostly), I really do feel that it is better to give than to receive. Giving presents to my loved ones, and seeing the happy look on their faces means more to me than almost any gift could ever amount to. I say almost because I don’t want to discredit the thought and love that goes into deciding on gifts. Receiving a thoughtful and heartfelt gift from someone who loves me means just as much as giving gifts to them.

Giving gifts as an adult requires a lot more brain power than many would assume. That is, if you want the gift to have meaning to the receiver. When you have disposable income, it becomes really easy to simply throw money at people in order to make them happy. While buying nice clothes, perfume and jewelry is certainly no inexpensive task, it doesn’t require too much effort. I’ve had two personal mottos for giving gifts this year: what does this gift mean to the person receiving it, and what use can they get out of it. Part of this means paying attention to the things they use in their daily lives. Just because I think they would look good in a particular outfit, doesn’t mean it necessarily fits their style. The other part of this motto entails potentially making gifts. These DIY presents don’t have to be super extravagant or over the top, they just have to contain meaning.

To me, celebrating Christmas as an adult means embracing the true meanings of the holiday, peace on Earth, goodwill towards men, and the spirit of giving over receiving. If you have yet to experience it, I can safely guarantee that there is no better feeling than making someone’s day with a really thoughtful gift.