The Gifts That Don’t Take Up Space

A bright pink writing journal and soft pink electronic tablet sit on a desk

If you’ve ever looked around your home during the holidays and felt that tiny flutter of oh no… where is all of this going to go?, you’re not alone. Gift-giving is such a beautiful tradition, but sometimes the things we receive add to the very overwhelm we’re trying to ease. Over the years, I’ve found a simple, heart-warming way to stay organized during gift season — and it’s something I use in my own home, too.

The Moment That Sparked the Idea

It started as a list in a notebook and moved to my phone — an easy place to capture acts of service, helpful items or other things our family actually needed or wanted. Not the impulse wants or the “this would be cute” wants, but the things that would genuinely add value to our daily lives.

Right now, at the very top of our list? Cat climbing apparatuses.
Yes… plural.

One of our Christmas gifts this year is building something special for the cats — something tall and fun and a little whimsical — and the best part is: it won’t clutter the house. We already know exactly where it’s going. It’s a gift that solves a need, makes our pets happy, and takes something off that honeydew list. That’s the kind of harmony I love.

The Shift That Changes Everything

When I work with clients, I see it all the time: closets overflowing with sweaters, drawers full of bath salts, cupboards packed with candles and coffee table books. Thoughtful gifts, absolutely — but sometimes they’re things we already have plenty of.

This is where the honeydew list becomes such a gentle guide.
It’s a way to look honestly at two things:

◈     What do we have too much of?

◈     What do we actually need or truly want?

And then — the magic — letting those two answers replace each other.

You can lovingly tell the people who shop for you, “I’d cherish something consumable this year,” or “I’m trying to create more space at home, so an experience would mean the world to me.” Most people want to give a gift that feels right. Sometimes they just need a little direction.

Gifts That Feel Good and Don’t Create Clutter

Some of my favorite non-cluttering gifts are the ones that leave your home exactly as it is — but leave you feeling enriched, cared for, or delighted:

◈     A homemade treat

◈     A candle you’ll actually use

◈     A service — like someone cooking dinner or helping with a task

◈     A trip to the movies

◈     A cozy evening out

◈     A small experience you’ve been wanting but never schedule for yourself

These gifts disappear because they’re meant to. They’re enjoyed, appreciated, lived. And that’s what makes them so meaningful.

Every time you choose a gift that doesn’t take up space — or guide someone else toward giving you one — you’re creating a little pocket of clarity in your life. A small act of self-care. A breath of ease in a season that can feel so full.

And if this conversation stirs something in you — maybe you’re ready to make your own honeydew list, or maybe you’re looking around and seeing just how much extra has gathered over the years — you’re not alone. You don’t have to sort it out by yourself.

Pinky Jackson is a Decluttering Specialist and Home Organizing Expert. If you need expert organizing help, don't hesitate to reach out. Pinky and her team would love to help you. Onsite Organizing services are available in the Louisville, KY area and Virtual Organizing services are offered for clients in other locations and for those who prefer to work online. Visit pinkyjackson.com to learn about our services and schedule a free assessment.

Photo: Hillary Black@internethillary