As the US economy teeters on the brink of instability and fear, Americans are taking a hit to their holiday wallets. The sense of unease among consumers has led to a decrease in spending during the festive season. For many, the relentless rise in prices is making it increasingly difficult to splurge on gifts for loved ones.
Those interviewed by the Guardian expressed concerns about the impact of tariffs and higher costs on their daily lives. "Prices for everything have gone up," said Grace Brown, 34, from Charlotte, North Carolina. "It's kind of hard to have luxuries." Even with budgeting notes scribbled in her phone, Brown's spending power has decreased due to the steady climb in prices.
Consumer confidence has hit a low, according to recent surveys, with fears over employment and contacts adding to the anxiety. Jeffrey Larimore, 68, from Caldwell, Idaho, described his family's reduced spending habits: "We had enough disposable income to go out to dinner, take weekend trips, and spoil my granddaughters. Since the tariffs have raised the cost of living, we've cut out all of that." His sentiments echo those of Ryan, a retired law enforcement officer in Texas, who fears he can barely put food on the table, let alone afford holiday shopping for his children.
As prices continue to rise and employment concerns weigh heavily on Americans' minds, many are opting out of the economy altogether. Shari Dunn, 57, from Oregon, is participating in an economic boycott over Black Friday, one of several consumer movements aimed at disrupting the retail industry. Her actions reflect a growing trend among consumers who feel frustrated with national politics and seek to make a statement by reducing their spending.
For some, this past year has marked a shift towards more sustainable gift-giving practices. Linda McKim Bell, 79, from Portland, Oregon, has avoided buying anything new since Trump took office, opting for online thrift stores for her family gifts instead. Her approach is just one example of how Americans are finding alternative ways to celebrate the holiday season in response to economic uncertainty.
As the US economy navigates a period of instability and fear, Americans are taking matters into their own hands by adjusting their spending habits. Whether through boycotts, budgeting adjustments, or creative gift-giving ideas, consumers are seeking ways to preserve some semblance of magic amidst the rising costs and concerns over employment.
Those interviewed by the Guardian expressed concerns about the impact of tariffs and higher costs on their daily lives. "Prices for everything have gone up," said Grace Brown, 34, from Charlotte, North Carolina. "It's kind of hard to have luxuries." Even with budgeting notes scribbled in her phone, Brown's spending power has decreased due to the steady climb in prices.
Consumer confidence has hit a low, according to recent surveys, with fears over employment and contacts adding to the anxiety. Jeffrey Larimore, 68, from Caldwell, Idaho, described his family's reduced spending habits: "We had enough disposable income to go out to dinner, take weekend trips, and spoil my granddaughters. Since the tariffs have raised the cost of living, we've cut out all of that." His sentiments echo those of Ryan, a retired law enforcement officer in Texas, who fears he can barely put food on the table, let alone afford holiday shopping for his children.
As prices continue to rise and employment concerns weigh heavily on Americans' minds, many are opting out of the economy altogether. Shari Dunn, 57, from Oregon, is participating in an economic boycott over Black Friday, one of several consumer movements aimed at disrupting the retail industry. Her actions reflect a growing trend among consumers who feel frustrated with national politics and seek to make a statement by reducing their spending.
For some, this past year has marked a shift towards more sustainable gift-giving practices. Linda McKim Bell, 79, from Portland, Oregon, has avoided buying anything new since Trump took office, opting for online thrift stores for her family gifts instead. Her approach is just one example of how Americans are finding alternative ways to celebrate the holiday season in response to economic uncertainty.
As the US economy navigates a period of instability and fear, Americans are taking matters into their own hands by adjusting their spending habits. Whether through boycotts, budgeting adjustments, or creative gift-giving ideas, consumers are seeking ways to preserve some semblance of magic amidst the rising costs and concerns over employment.
. I think it's interesting that Americans are taking matters into their own hands by cutting back on spending and opting for more sustainable gift-giving practices 
. It's not just about saving money, but also about making a statement against the rising costs of living.
. And it's not just about individual actions; these collective efforts could potentially lead to broader changes in consumer behavior.
. Whatever the reason, it's clear that Americans are not going to sit back and accept the status quo without making their voices heard.
, it's crazy how much we've had to tighten our belts just to make ends meet 
. I remember when my kids were younger and we'd splurge on family vacations or fancy dinners... now those days seem like a distant memory 
. It's not just the big-ticket items that are hitting us hard either, everyday stuff like groceries and household essentials are getting more expensive by the day 
. Some folks are finding ways to make do with what they have, like buying second-hand gifts or being more mindful of their spending 
. I admire that about them 
.
. I mean, I get it, prices have gone up and all that, but can't we do something about it instead of just cutting back on spending? it feels like we're just passing the buck to each other 
. I swear, it's all just a bunch of adults acting like kids, throwing tantrums because we can't afford the latest trends 
.
i feel for shari dunn opting out of black friday it's like she's saying enough is enough to all this price hike madness 
and linda mckim bell avoiding new gifts since trump took office that's dedication fam 
budgeting notes scribbled in her phone is so relatable tbh i feel like we're living in a world where christmas is just a distant memory because of tariffs and stuff 
.
. They're having to get creative with their gift-giving ideas, opting for experiences over physical gifts, or even just saying no to buying anything new at all 
), I gotta say, this one feels different. There's a sense of fear and uncertainty that's not just about the money, it's about the future 
. People are re-evaluating their priorities, taking control of their finances, and finding ways to make the holiday season special without breaking the bank 
. I mean, who knew people could get so passionate about not buying stuff? 
it's like, what even is the point of having a holiday if you can barely afford the presents? I mean, I get that prices are crazy high right now, but come on! 
I've started looking into online thrift stores like Linda mentioned in the article, it's actually really cool 
and it's helping me feel more connected to my family instead of just buying something that's going to end up collecting dust. 
. And you know what? I think this is a good lesson in living below our means and being intentional with our money. We don't have to keep up with the Joneses, not even on Black Friday 
. By choosing to reduce our spending, we're actually increasing our financial security and freedom - it's all about perspective 
.
. some ppl r trying to be all cool about it tho by doing economic boycotts or buying second hand but its not like its gonna make a difference in the grand scheme of things 
. we're just delaying the inevitable i think...
. Maybe it's time for Americans to reevaluate what holiday means, not just about spending 
.
. I guess some folks are finding ways to make do with what they have and still enjoy the holiday season. It's actually kinda sweet that people are coming together to support each other and find alternative ways to celebrate 
.
and consumer confidence hitting an all-time low 
. For people like Shari, participating in an economic boycott on Black Friday, it's not just about reducing spending but making a statement 
.
️. It's clear that Americans are finding ways to adapt, whether it's cutting back or getting creative with their gifts. The good news is that they're taking matters into their own hands 
anyway, kudos to Shari for standing up for her values and opting out of the economy altogether, but can't we just talk about finding ways to make things more affordable instead of making a statement? 
. With the number of people living paycheck to paycheck increasing by 50% since 2019 
.
!
as prices keep going up, i think we'll see more ppl embracing experiences over material gifts 
it's all about finding that balance & not letting the economy dictate our happiness