Experts have linked people’s personalities with how early or late they choose to decorate for Christmas while giving reasons and evidence for their conclusions. Year after year, the longstanding debate of when it is best to adorn the home for the holiday continues, and this feedback might change perspectives.
Christmas is beyond just a holiday for many people, as they see it as a time to bond with friends and family, do some self-reflection, or relive childhood memories while making more. Florida-based psychotherapist, Amy Morin noted that the holiday stirs up nostalgia and the need for an escape.
Christmas tree personality quiz details what it means when you put your tree up earlier than usual
Psychologist Dr. Carmen Harra opined that early decorators may have hidden emotions and subconscious behavior tendencies. She added that narcissists are quick to set up because they love praise and attention, which they can get from neighbors as they decorate. It can also be a coverup for family unrest, as people will see relatives working together to put things up.
Morin, who also wrote 13 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do added that some put up their Christmas tree early to connect to old happy times, and to remind themselves of the approaching festivities. British psychoanalyst Steve McKeown agrees with Morin, adding that adults whose holiday needs were neglected as kids use decorating to compensate for the past.
How early is too early?
Retailers like Sainsbury’s, Marks & Spencer and Home Bargains in the UK stock up on Christmas decor as early as September, catering to the early decorators in question. Some skip Halloween to begin setting up, while others wait it out until after the spooky holiday, and begin decorating the very next day.
The first week of December also counts, as most stores are already going big on their Christmas deals. The other end of the spectrum has seemingly unenthusiastic folks who bring out their trees and ornaments at the last minute, likely waiting for inspiration from the early birds. Many keep their decorations up until January 5, which marks the 12th day of Christmas.