5 Simple Steps to Finding the Perfect Gift

Finding the perfect gift can be hard, especially if the person it’s intended for is not exactly an open book. And it’s not just about giving a gift because it’s expected. There’s proof that giving to others instead of spending on ourselves can make us happier too.

‘Oh, I don’t need anything.’ The dreaded words we’ve all heard before. It’s always nice to hear that your loved ones already have everything they need, but for anyone with no idea what to get them for the holidays, their content can present a challenge.

It is sheer irony that making others and ourselves happy this way can stress us out. To reduce the stress this year, here’s 5 simple steps that can make gift-giving a bit easier.

1. What’s your budget?

An expensive gift doesn’t always equal a good gift. Decide what budget you’re comfortable with and work with that. There are many affordable things out there that make a great gift your loved ones will appreciate.

2. Make a list

What is this person interested in? Think about their personality. Would you say that they are, for example, elegant, gentle, energetic, eccentric or traditional? Would they appreciate something practical or decorative? Colors are important too, do they like vibrant colors or maybe subdued hues?

3. Personalize your gift

Think about the circumstances the person is in right now and create a care package for them. Are they just starting school? A new job? Did they recently move? Are they planning a trip? Do they have a hobby? Help them become more efficient and put together a package of products that will make their everyday life easier.

4. Make the gift itself an event

Go wild when wrapping. Instead of just giving them the gift in a decorative bag or wrapped in nice paper, make the unwrapping an experience. Make multiple small gifts and mark them to be unwrapped in a certain order. Make it funny. Add a small little detail, completely opposite to what they would expect, or make the whole present a ridiculous one. A few pounds of their favorite fruit should do the trick.

5. Make it taste good

If all else fails, remember that you can’t go wrong with a delicious homemade treat. Put some effort into it and prepare something they wouldn’t normally make themselves. Have a cake recipe you always wanted to try out, but it seemed like too much effort? Now’s the perfect opportunity!