Lykkers, the holiday season is here! We all want to give gifts that bring joy, but in reality, many gifts don't have the impact we hope for. Some even leave the recipient feeling awkward or unimpressed.
Why does this happen? The truth is, many of us have misunderstandings about what makes a "good gift." Today, let's break it down and learn how to choose gifts that people truly love!
Forget About the Price Tag
We often hear that "it's the thought that counts," but when we're picking gifts, we tend to believe that spending more money shows we care more. Research proves otherwise. Studies show that while gift-givers assume expensive gifts will be more appreciated, recipients don't actually connect price with enjoyment. A costly gift doesn't automatically mean a better gift. So, instead of focusing on price, let's focus on meaning and usefulness.
Practical Gifts Are the Best
We often get caught up in the excitement of a gift rather than thinking about how often the recipient will actually use it. Imagine a husband buying his wife a diamond necklace, picturing her feeling glamorous—but in reality, she rarely wears fancy jewelry. The same happens with many gifts.
In a study, researchers found that people choosing a gift for a friend tended to pick something fancy, like a stylish but heavy pen. However, recipients preferred practical gifts, like a lightweight, retractable pen they could carry every day. The lesson? Gifts that fit into someone's daily life are often more appreciated than extravagant ones.
It's Okay If the Gift Isn't Used Immediately
Many of us worry that a gift must be used right away, but research shows that recipients don't mind waiting. One study compared two types of flowers as gifts—one was a dozen fully bloomed roses, ready to enjoy immediately, while the other was a bouquet of buds that would bloom over time. Gift-givers preferred the first option, but recipients actually liked the second one more.
Another example? When choosing between giving someone a mid-range kitchen appliance or covering part of the cost for a high-end one, givers tended to prefer gifting the mid-range model. However, recipients actually preferred financial help toward a better item, even if they had to wait to get the full thing. This proves that a gift doesn't have to bring instant joy—it just needs to be truly useful or meaningful in the long run.
Give People What They Actually Want
Surprises can be fun, but studies show that people appreciate getting exactly what they asked for even more. Many gift-givers think that picking an unexpected gift shows thoughtfulness, but in reality, recipients feel most valued when their wishes are acknowledged and fulfilled. If someone tells you what they want, the best thing you can do is listen!
Experiences Are Better Than Things
We might think that physical gifts last longer, but research suggests that experiences bring more lasting happiness. A family trip, a concert, or a fun class often creates more joy than a luxury item. Some givers hesitate to gift experiences because they worry about choosing the "wrong" one. The solution? Offer flexible options. Instead of booking a single massage, give a spa gift card with multiple service choices. That way, the recipient can pick what suits them best!
Why Do We Keep Making These Mistakes?
If research shows how to give better gifts, why don't we follow it? One reason is that we rarely get honest feedback—after all, it's considered rude to criticize a gift. But another, deeper reason is that many of us give gifts for the joy of giving, not just for the recipient's happiness. Seeing someone's face light up when they open an unexpected present feels great—but that excitement might fade quickly if the gift isn't practical or truly wanted.
The Best Gift Comes from Understanding
After a tough year, we all crave moments of happiness. But the best gifts aren't necessarily flashy, expensive, or surprising—they are the ones that truly match what someone needs or wants. This holiday season, let's shift our focus. Instead of choosing gifts that make us feel good in the moment, let's pick ones that bring them joy in the long run. Now, Lykkers, what's the best gift you've ever received? Let's share and inspire each other!
