7 Ways To Give and Get The Best Gifts

By: Kathy Gates - [home]
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.








>>Reprint/Distribution Source : ArticleWareHouse.com