The Benefits of Thanksgiving 2020

 As a professional organizer, I often deal with too much stuff. Whether it's paperwork, clutter, or activities, people's homes and lives are filled to the brim. As I contemplate Thanksgiving coming in a few days, I'm reminded of this overabundance of stuff once again. In years past, I've posted ideas on organizing Thanksgiving dinner, how to make meal plans and get it all done.
This year will be different. With the governmental mandates, small gatherings and social distancing, your Thanksgiving may very well have less. Fewer get-togethers, less traveling, fewer family members or friends. And, while we can debate whether this is helpful or right to place these restrictions, I believe that sometimes changing up the norm can be a good thing.
For example, fewer get-togethers will allow us to focus on being present with those we actually do get to see. We won't be rushing from one place to the next, fretting about traffic, getting dishes prepared, and the like. Spending time with others is definitely more meaningful these days.
Another way this year is different - that I believe has more positive effects - is that "Black Friday" sales are going on through extended time periods and not Thanksgiving Day and the day after. This means you can take the time to think about what you really need to purchase. The psychological pressure of getting the deal is reduced, which makes it less likely for you to purchase something only to have buyer's remorse in a week. Previously, shoppers would just buy because they couldn't pass up the deal, without any thought for whom they are buying that gift. So, less gift clutter, less money spent, more time at home enjoying our family - all good things in my book.
I realize this holiday is going to be different. But we can give thanks for the things that we do have and not clutter up our thoughts dwelling on the negatives. 

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