Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday – Finding Balance in a Consumer World

The weekend after Thanksgiving has become a whirlwind of shopping. Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday bring deals, sales, and endless ads urging us to buy more. For many, it’s exciting. For others, it feels overwhelming. So how do we find balance in a world that pulls us toward consumption?

The answer lies in intention. Shopping doesn’t have to be mindless—it can be mindful. Choosing to support small businesses keeps money in our communities. Looking for meaningful gifts rather than trendy ones brings more joy to both the giver and the receiver. And pausing before every purchase to ask, Do I really need this? helps us avoid regret later.

It’s also important to remember that giving doesn’t always mean buying. A handwritten letter, a family recipe in a jar, or the gift of time can mean more than anything purchased in a store.

This season, balance can be found by blending practicality with purpose. Enjoy the sales if you wish, but don’t let them define the holiday. True abundance is not in what we buy, but in the gratitude, love, and connection we share.

Lilly Botto -Writer -” House & Garden” Category