Tips For Buying a Gift
Whether it’s a thoughtfully selected gift, a heartfelt message or simply a kind gesture, a great gift shows that the giver is mindful of the recipient. And while generosity can certainly play a role, the true essence of a gift lies in the relationship that exists between the giver and recipient. This is something that has been scientifically proven in many contexts, including the workplace.
For example, if you are giving someone a gift for their birthday or another special occasion, try to focus on their interests and what makes them light up. If they love a certain activity, it’s likely that if you get them tickets for that activity, they will be extremely happy and appreciative because it symbolizes that they are loved and appreciated.
Another important thing to consider is how long the gift will be appreciated, which will help you decide on what type of gift to get them. Generally speaking, gifts that are more unique and stand out from the crowd tend to be appreciated more than common ones. If you can find a personalized item, that’s even better!
In addition, it’s also important to consider the age of the person for whom you are buying a gift. For children, it’s best to stick to age appropriate toys. For example, one-year olds will appreciate push toys, while two-year olds will love a new set of ABC blocks. For adults, you can do a bit more creative research and find out what they like, such as a book for the avid reader, or an essential oil diffuser for the home body.
If you are purchasing a gift for an acquaintance, it may be more appropriate to go with a gift card or a more general item that can still feel special and thoughtful. For example, if you have a close friend who loves gardening, you can find them a pot of their favorite plant or an indoor herb garden. If you have a best friend who is an animal lover, you could give them pet supplies or an experience that would allow them to enjoy their hobby.
It is also important to keep in mind that while most gifts are meant to be enjoyed in the moment, the majority of gifts actually have a longer-term utility than you might think. In fact, a study has shown that people who receive gifts are more content than those who do not. This finding suggests that there is a real and lasting happiness benefit to gift-giving, which is good news for gift-givers everywhere!