The Power of Handmade : Gifting Beyond Market Value.

In a quest to embrace sustainability and improve our environmental footprint in some areas where we can sensibly do so, celebrating in general is a great opportunity to turn our habits into positive steps towards a greener future : gifting with the power of handmade.

Celebrating All Throughout Life.

Special occasions are reasons to celebrate all year long. Whether they are forced on us through a calendar of set dates or whether they are simple bursts of the moment we decide to introduce into our routines to fully seize our existence and make it that much more joyful.

At the given time, we set some goals, figure out the big picture. We make lists of tasks to accomplish for the said event. We weigh up and decide on the items we will need to fulfill our wish of the perfect festivities.

The Constraint of Consumerism.

Being able to perform all of those little steps is not always easy—or even feasible. It heavily depends on many factors : location, financial status, workload, logistics, ability to source materials, etc.

This past Holiday Season was no exception in bringing disappointment and frustration to some of us. We simply were not able to find what we were looking for in stores, or online even. This should have enlightened us on some aspects of the dynamics of our society. Also opening a window into our vision and acceptance of consumerism.

But gifting does not have to be this way.

Acknowledging our Talents.

As individuals, each and everyone of us has a special talent like no other. Something that is easy for us to do but that someone else would find unfeasible. Also something we enjoy doing and which we are good at. And this is an absolute treasure, a niche so very much our own. So, whenever possible, rather than turning to generics and acquiring presents thought third parties, making our gifts should be prided, like the invaluable privilege it is. And the power of handmade shall not be underestimated.

Homemade, handmade, truly is powerful and beautiful.

A Mindful Process.

Spending time preparing a gift for someone who is special to us will go a lot further than spending money on a store-brought article. The actual power of handmade lies in the process. The process of handmaking something is mindful, to both the giver and the recipient.

It means dedicating time for that person while remembering the moments shared together. Understanding why they are so dear to us. It means reflecting on how our present will touch their soul and affect their life. And the other party will recognize it. They will understand the time dedicated for them. And remember the moments shared with us, and understand why we are so special to them.

They will know.

Making us Grow.

The experience itself of making your present will also benefit you to a greater extend. You will want to push your limits and make your offering grand, unforgettable. This will nurture your sense of achievement. It will inspire you to perfect your skills so you can be proud of what you are making.

You will be able to accomplish something unique and as close to perfection as you can. It will help elevate your own abilities and boost your self-confidence. It can even open new horizons while improving certain aspects of your life. Starting a new venture maybe ?

By entering the curated world of makers, you will achieve not only a series of offering but a greater purpose in your own journey.

Appreciating the Recipient’s Aspiration.

Now, that being said, when it comes to gifting, or pleasing someone with a special treat, good judgement should always be exercised.

Indeed, if our special someone has been dreaming of a trendy jacket for a while and we know that getting it would mean the world to them, then knitting them a sweater instead will probably turn out to be more mean than meaningful really. They might recognize our efforts and dedication—depending on their sensibility—but let’s be honest here, handmaking everything shall not always prevail. We all have feelings and specific motives to desire something in particular. We have our reasons that might not be understood by all and that we might not want to share. And that is just fine.

Gifting in general, and bringing happiness around us, is a mindful process that shall not be underestimated. We need to understand the person we are giving to and respect their wishes all the same. Whenever feasible, needless to say.

A Sustainable Process.

In First Steps to Sustainable Living, we explore the fact that embracing sustainable living holds an important human component relying on not judging others if they decide not to share some or all of our convictions. We all have the right to chose how we impact our surroundings and if we want to do so. We all have our own motivations, our own timing and our own way to walk towards a greener future.

If a particular present does not entirely meet our criteria of eco-friendly living or eco-conscious choices, well this should not be the priority. And let’s not forget that setting an example through accomplishing will go much further into influencing others than criticism or forcefulness. We will incite our entourage much more efficiently by making our personal routine greener than by being judgmental. But we should also remember that once we have put our heart into it, our gift will mean the world to the person receiving it. And it will probably encourage them to perpetuate the process themselves.

So whether it is preparing a savory homemade sauerkraut, building a custom utility sleigh, writing a song to perform or repairing an heirloom guitar to reconnect generations together and bring back precious memories, the power of handmade will not only contribute to preserve the planet by not inciting mass production of generic products, but will lead you to create authenticity. You will make a difference in your loved ones’ life and help our planet all along.