As published in Azalea Magazine Winter 2016
It’s that time again. Holiday season is officially underway, which means the hunt for the perfect present has begun. It’s a cliché, but as you flock to the stores searching for the perfect gifts for friends and family members, keep in mind that gift giving is ultimately about the spirit or thought behind the present.
Here is a list of do’s and don’ts for gift giving this holiday season:
DO
Make a list. Give presents to the people you want to show your appreciation to such as family and close friends.
Put thought into gifts. The biggest mistake people make when approaching holiday gifts is to buy what they would like, rather than what the recipient would like. Take time to really think about the gift recipient’s personal interests, needs, wants, likes and dislikes.
Consider presentation. The best way to present a gift is always beautifully wrapped and in person.
DON’T
Spend above your means. Gift giving is about being thoughtful and showing appreciation, it’s not about going into debt.
Leave the price tag on. It is not appropriate to show how much you spent on an item.
Expect anything in return. Giving is not an opportunity for quid pro quo. If the person reciprocates, that’s wonderful. However, if the giving is one-sided, be happy that you were the one doing the giving. After all, it is better to give than to receive, right?
While December is the biggest gift-giving month, there are endless reasons to give gifts throughout the year. The purpose of giving gifts is to bring joy to both the giver and receiver, promote goodwill, and make for a closer relationship. As we count down the days until Christmas, as with any gift giving occasion, just remember it truly is the thought that counts.