I noticed several holiday tipping articles in the news the last couple of days, and this morning I pulled out of my driveway and noticed my neighbors had left envelopes with bows on top of each of their garbage/recycling/yard debris containers. I personally love the idea of tipping, along with a thoughtful note, as a way to thank and acknowledge those that help me so much on my day-to-day and week-to-week to-dos.
It is simple to identify the individuals you interact with frequently such as childcare, housekeeping, and landscaping providers. Some people providing important services are not as easy to see. Take the garbage collectors for example – I just roll out my containers on garbage day and return home to find the containers empty. I hadn’t thought of the garbage collectors until I saw my neighbors acknowledgement this morning. I am sure my neighbors effort will brighten their day and help them know their service is appreciated and valued.
It can be hard to know who to tip, and how much. I found the following tipping articles quite helpful:
- A Holiday Tipping Guide For All The People Who Help You Around The House
The Huffington Post | By Renee Jacques | - Guess who’s expecting a holiday tip this year…
CNN Money | By Jillian Eugenios | Had I read this article before this morning, I would have noticed the garbage collector! - Your No-Stress Holiday Tipping Guide
Philadelphia Magazine | By Ashley Prims| - Who Can You Get Away With NOT Tipping Around the Holidays?
Time – Money | by Kate Ashford | 12/16/2014
I agree with the sediment that you should not feel obligated to tip, and understand that these people are paid to provide services. You should tip who you want, when you want, and as much as you want. Tipping is a gift, a gesture of kindness, and we all know showing people kindness goes along way.
