How to Buy Gifts That People Will Actually Want
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Instructions
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Stay Away From These Gifts
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Yes, there is such a thing as a bad present. Avoid dumb awards. Unless your father actually thinks he's the "Number One Dad," don't mock him by getting him one.
Avoid purchasing clothes unless you've seen the recipient try on and put back a specific item of clothing because she didn't have the money to splurge on it. Chances are, you'll get the wrong size, style and/or color, and the recipient will be forced to wear the thing once in front of you, then proceed to tuck it in the back of her closet and hope you forget about it soon. If you're set on clothes, you're much better off getting a gift certificate.
Avoid presents that can be offensive. You might think you're doing good by giving your overweight coworker an ab-roller for Christmas, but you're not. Think about what your presents say before you hand them over.
Avoid presents you want for yourself. Just because you want a remote-controlled monster truck doesn't mean your mom will appreciate it, especially when you ask to borrow the truck right after she takes it out of the box.
Avoid generic presents. Even though they are given often, mugs are never good presents, except for people you barely know. The same goes for $10 in lottery tickets. In other words, stay away from gifts that say nothing except "I have no clue ... so here."
Don't give people pets. There might be a reason the recipient doesn't have a dog or cat. Pets are a big responsibility, and it's a bad idea to push the recipient into that position without warning. Stick to sea monkeys or perhaps a fish if you insist on giving something live.
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Next: Consider These Gifts
Resources
- Photo Credit a gift image by Sandi Chetwynd from Fotolia.com
