This time of year is filled with both the best things… and the worst things. The best being time spent with family, a home full of laughter, food, new and old memories and love; the worst being final projects, essays and exams. On top of all these other assignments, the task of finding the perfect gift for all our loved ones just one more thing we find ourselves worrying about.
Why is it so difficult to buy a present for someone we know so well and care for so much? We know what they like, we know what they dislike, we know their hobbies and routines. However, we don’t know what the perfect gift would be. Maybe it’s because we know they’re the best “things” in our lives, so nothing will ever be quite deserving of how great they are. There really is no physical object that could show my family how much I appreciate all of their love, compassion and support.
But that doesn’t mean I won’t try to find something that could do at least half the job! I’ve always been told that I’m a good “gifter,” but it’s not an easy occupation. For some people, it may come naturally, like a singers natural ear for key and intonation. For others, like me, it’s more of an object of effort.
(Source: www.hotshotwhizkids.com)
Everyone knows the saying “it’s the thought that counts” when it comes to gifts…typically applying to gifts that are somewhat subpar. However, it really is true. When someone is important to us, we pay attention to what they talk about and we remember these details. When searching for the perfect gift, this is the first reservoir for successful gifting. A month or so before an event of gift-exchanging, I start keeping mental notes about these conversations. Did they just mention a new CD they would love to have? A new makeup pallet? Sometimes, it’s not that easy. Sometimes, you have to read between the lines. What activities do they talk about enjoying, and how could these relate to a gift?
If you’ve emptied this source and are still stuck, have no fear. Another way to find something they might like is to simply go window shopping. While you’re out and about, casual look at different stores and think about what each has to offer. Occasionally, an object may stand out to you, and you’ll just know that’s the perfect purchase. But sometimes not.
In that case, my next step is to do some serious research. Look into their social media. Do they post pictures of monkeys mentioning how cute they are? Maybe something monkey-related would be a good gift. Some popular things to look at are clothing, food trends, make-up or hair trends and activities. Find something they seem to be really interested in, and get them a gift that is related to that idea. Not only will the gift be unique, it will also bring them a lot of joy knowing how much you cared to find out what they’re interested in.
(Source: www.etsy.com)
Along the same vein, the next option also includes research. It may be less personal, but search for ideas on Pinterest or Etsy. If you find an idea that relates to their interests and is handmade, even if it doesn’t turn out as perfectly as the artisan made products online, it’ll still be extremely unique and extraordinarily thoughtful. Putting forward your best effort and your time into a craftier project may give them that special feeling.
In a last ditch effort, be a little sneaky. Play it cool and start up a conversation about something your parents are getting you. Then, ask them what they think their loved ones are getting them. If this doesn’t lead to any answers, ask what they’d like to receive from these loved ones. Keep this conversation very loose and nonchalant, don’t seem overly eager, prying or interested, or it might tip them off that this conversation really isn’t about gifts from other people.
While it may seem like gifts are just another stresser to add to your overloaded mind, try not to feel this way. Put yourselves in their shoes: would you really be that disappointed in any gift that someone important to you put time and thought into? Neither would they. The holidays are about showing people that you love how strongly you feel for them. This doesn’t have to be through material items.
Make sure to spend quality time with those who matter to you, and when the gifts are being opened, be thankful for whatever you get.