Just like that, it’s the time of the year when our thoughts turn to gift-giving. Sometimes we give gifts because we know how much the recipient will appreciate and cherish the gift. Sometimes we give gifts because there’s a special occasion happening. And other times we stumble upon an item that we know would mean something special to someone, and it’s a spontaneous gift. Gift-giving is a love language, and anyone can learn to speak it, you just need to become fluent in the art of gift-giving.
Do You Need to Give a Gift?
Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, anniversary, or formal occasion, is a gift needed? Typically, giving a gift becomes a way to show that you care about someone or validating the relationship you share. The secret is to avoid the gift feeling forced or disingenuous; you want to give something that has meaning. Make the gift personal, consider your relationship with this person, and understand the dynamic of your bond with them.
Does Size Matter?
The best way to look at this question is to understand that it’s all relative. What does this person appreciate? What kind of gifts have you exchanged in the past? What values do you both share? Can a gift reflect these values accurately? To understand the complexity of the gift, you must understand your connection with this person and if there are expectations to be met.
How to Pick a Gift
Find something they will love, even if it’s not on their radar. We know that the best gifts are surprising and unexpected, something that leaves the receiver feeling grateful. Give some thought about the things they need. Have they mentioned something in passing that they would never buy for themselves? What would you want? Are you similar enough that you share the same tastes?
Experiences vs Physical Gifts
Some people don’t want anything – at least they don’t want another thing to take up space. This doesn’t mean they wouldn’t appreciate a thoughtful gift of an experience. Experiences and perishables can be just as, if not even more, memorable for a person than items. If you believe that the recipient will be more thankful for an experience shared together, this may be the way to go.
How to Give the Gift
Now that you’ve selected the gift, how will you present this gift to this special person? Does the gift need to be extravagantly wrapped? Should you present the gift in person? Should you include a note? Again, it depends on your relationship with that person. However, delivering a gift in person adds an extra touch of love and shows them you care. They don’t need to open the gift in front of you, but you’re able to say anything you wish to say before leaving them alone to enjoy their gift however they choose. Including a note is an excellent way to give a thoughtful message to someone if you’re not able to deliver that message in person or verbally.
Understandably, this all may seem like a lot to think about. Whatever way you choose to give a gift, remember that giving is an act of kindness. You may be stressing over the specifics, but at the end of the day, this person will be grateful you were simply thinking of them. Although gift-giving is not everyone’s love language, it’s useful to know your audience. Understand how they interpret your relationship and any expectations that come along with that in terms of gift-giving. Lastly, sometimes the greatest gift has no monetary value; the most meaningful gift can merely be the presence of you on this special occasion!