Create Experiences

Create Experiences: Gifts That Can Last A Lifetime

What do you want for your birthday, Christmas, Anniversary etc…?

If you’re anything like me you get asked this question about a dozen times a year. As I get older and work towards simplifying my life, it’s getting tougher and tougher to answer this question. I really and truly want for nothing these days. I have my family and good friends, a modest home and everything I need to maintain it. Sure the oven mitts are a bit tattered but they’re still good.

In light of our abundance and desire to reduce clutter, my husband and I have chosen to create experiences as gifts for each other as opposed to exchanging material things. When thoughtful and close to your heart these gifts can truly last a lifetime.Why do experiences tend to make most people happier than material possessions do?

For starters material things lose their luster. The initial feelings of pride and joy quickly disappear when you see the item everyday.
The feelings from experiences on the other hand don’t usually disappear all together. You’re able to relive the moments through memories and can quickly be transported back in time to relive the positive experience.
Experiences allow us to spend time with people and connect with loved ones in meaningful ways.
Granted not everyone will like this idea, but if you find this idea intriguing and would like to give it a try here are some thoughts on how to create experiences that become gifts that last a lifetime.

How to create experiences

1. Know what makes them tick. Remember that this is a gift for them and should be something you know they will enjoy. Consider their hobbies, goals, aspirations and see what you can do. If they often talk about taking a pottery class but have never done it, book a beginners class for them or a one day pottery painting session. If it’s hiking that they enjoy plan a day trip to somewhere they’ve never been. Pack a lunch, plenty of water and a camera. It should be something they are interested in or would enjoy. Pay attention throughout the year and be on the lookout for clues as to what you could do for them.

2. Make it for two…or more. An experience is more memorable when you are able to share it. When deciding on what to do for someone consider going along yourself or buying an extra ticket for them to take whoever they want. It’s nice to be able to talk about the activity with someone afterwards and to be able to reminisce weeks, months or even years later. This is what makes experiences the gifts that keep on giving.

3. Push the boundaries. Another reason people prefer experiences to material gifts is the experiences make them feel invigorated, charged, alive. Consider pushing the boundaries a bit. If your loved one has always wanted to try skydiving but has made every excuse in the book for not getting around to it, book it. If they took a dance class years ago and thoroughly enjoyed it make an evening of it and go out dancing. Let them feel alive or rekindle an old passion…live a little.

Some inspiration to get you going

Deep sea fishing
Camping weekend
Photography treasure hunt
Laser tag/paintball
Miniature golf
Skydiving/parachuting
Hot air ballooning
Weekend at a bed and breakfast
Picnic in the park
Pool party
Lunch at a country tea house
Go-karts
Gliding
Rent a sports car/luxury car for an afternoon (convertible if it’s nice and feel the wind on your face)
Make a 5 star restaurant dinner at home
You are really only limited to your imagination and to the likes loves of your loved one. Get creative, have fun and give a gift that will last a lifetime and deepen a relationship.

What are your thoughts? What experiences have you created? What’s been your favorite life experience that’s made you feel alive?