We've all been there --Bad Gift Street. And it's a two-way
street, as well. But no one gives a bad gift intentionally. As a
giver, I know I want my recipient to enjoy my gift. And I believe
they want me to do the same.
After all, we both spent our hard earned money and limited time.
We sure don't want our gift to end up in the next garage-sale. So
try these tips instead.
1. Oh, the lowly hint. You don't have to come off as greedy, just
as someone who's paying attention and voicing an opinion. Just
say, "Have you seen those new blenders? Aren't they
great!" Hint for other people as well, and help out your
sister-in-law. "Rob is such a reader. He can't wait to get
his hands on that new Grisham novel."
2. Think past the holiday. Never give pets during the holiday
itself. If a puppy or kitten is on the list, give the leash, the
bowl, a training book, etc., but save the trip to the shelter to
pick it out until after the excitement of the holiday. Don't treat
a living animal like a new sweater or video game.
3. Resist the urge. When did Christmas become about all the junky
novelty stuff? Except for stocking stuffers, nobody wants to end
up with a bunch of junk that has lost it's fad by the end of
January. Spend your money on things that have a little longer
shelf life.
4. Don't get hung up on one aspect of a personality. Just because
a person is a cat-lover, doesn't mean you should give her cat
sweatshirts, cat mugs, cat rugs. Dig a little deeper. If you just
can't see past the cat- love, at least try a donation to an animal
shelter instead.
5. Don't compete with parents. Just simply ask what would be a
good gift for the child, something that they're not going to get
themselves.
6. Be careful about food gifts. Many people are watching their
weight, on special diets, or are away for the holidays and things
can spoil. If you really want to give food, try giving a coupon
for a home- made dinner (or dessert, etc.) later in the year. It
will be much more special.
7. If you're out of the loop, stay off the freeway. If you give to
family or friends whose life you're not a daily part of, it can be
difficult to access what they might really like. Gift cards aren't
the most fun to give, but they are the most fun to get. Dress them
up with a little gift bag, and maybe a small ornament or bookmark.
That way you'll feel like you picked out something special, but
still got them something they could really use.
It doesn't have to be Bad Gift Street again this year. Most people
aren't that hard to please, and if we'll all just listen a little
harder, we'll all give - and get - better gifts for years to come.
Professional Life Coach Kathy Gates helps people
who are burned out, stressed out, and fed up to get back to
basics. Sign up for weekly How-To Clinics and a free ezine at http://www.reallifecoach.com
or call for a free consultation at 480.998.5843.
