In a TikTok video, a London woman named Ells humorously announced that her family and friends should expect nothing but coal for Christmas gifts this year.
Her reason? She's simply out of funds.
Living in London, Ells finds herself unable to match her earnings with the high cost of living, making the purchase of expensive gifts an unrealistic endeavor.
Ells openly discusses the financial strain many people face, especially during the festive season. She criticizes the pressure to buy extravagant gifts, which often leads to debt or feelings of inadequacy for not being able to afford luxurious items. Ells points out that the essence of Christmas is often overshadowed by commercialization and societal expectations.
"There’s a lot of people in the same position and a lot of people who are worse off, which is heartbreaking," she states in the video.
She also touches upon the emotional aspect of the holiday season, acknowledging that for many, Christmas isn't always a joyous time.
Issues like financial struggles or family dysfunction can make the season particularly challenging. Ells emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting that not everyone's Christmas experience is the same.
“And people will ask you, ‘when are you going home for Christmas’ or ‘who are you seeing over Christmas? Hope you have a great time with the family. That can really trigger some people.” she says.
In her video, Ells reassures her audience that it's okay not to conform to the extravagant gift-giving norm. She jokingly remarks that even her boyfriend will be receiving a metaphorical lump of coal, as she herself will be the present, which should be enough.
Do you also think Christmas has become too commercial, like Ells? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section
