40-Day Christmas Challenge | Day 3 • Define Your Top 5 Values • Everyday Cheapskate

Here’s a question to kick off today’s challenge: What do you really value about Christmas? Is it those cozy, unhurried moments with family? The joy of giving something thoughtful? Or maybe it’s the traditions that remind you why this season matters in the first place.

Day 3 • Define Your Top 5 Values

Today we’re putting purpose behind the plans. Before the season gets swept up in wrapping paper and cookie crumbs, gather your family and make a “Top 5 Holiday Values” list. Think of it as your North Star for the next few weeks—keeping everyone focused on what brings joy instead of stress.

This list isn’t about doing more; it’s about doing what matters most. Whether that means staying home in pajamas, baking together, volunteering, or attending your favorite concert, your Top 5 will shape how your family experiences the season.

Action Step

Hold a short family meeting. Mealtime works great!
Ask everyone what they love most about Christmas. No wrong answers here.
Have each person “nominate” their top choices, then agree on your Top 5 Holiday Values together.
Write them down and post the list where everyone can see it.

Need ideas? Your list might include:

Slowing down and enjoying time together
Keeping Christmas simple and meaningful
Giving handmade or heartfelt gifts
Celebrating faith and gratitude
Making or sharing special foods
Reaching out to those in need
Hosting friends, family, or neighbors

Once you’ve settled on your values, make them practical. If one of your top five is “spending more quality time together,” ask: How exactly will we do that? and When?

Maybe that means everyone takes a day off… no work, no school, no errands… just sleeping in, baking cookies, tackling a puzzle, or watching old Christmas movies. (Now that’s a plan worth circling on the calendar.)

Post your Top 5 where it’s easy to see… on the fridge, a family message board, or even your phone’s home screen as a reminder to keep the season aligned with what matters most. Need a head start? Download our Values Planning Worksheet to make this step simple →

Why It Matters

Defining your values sets the tone for the season. It helps you say “yes” to what truly counts and “no” to the rest without guilt or second-guessing. You’ll trade frenzy for focus, obligation for intention, and create memories that actually mean something.

When your choices reflect your values, Christmas becomes less about doing it all and more about doing it well.

More Ways to Participate in #EC40DayChallenge:

Question: What’s on your family’s “Top 5 Holiday Values” list? Share it in the comments below! You might just spark an idea that helps someone else create a more meaningful Christmas this year.