I’m sure you’ve all been there. You ask your Dad or Mom, “What do you want for your birthday/Christmas?” and they either say something along the lines of “I don’t want anything.” or “Let me think about it.” And suddenly, it’s a week before Christmas/their birthday, and you still have nothing. It’s difficult to accept their statement because when their birthday or holidays roll around, it will be really awkward when you show up empty-handed.
Brian, Fuetz, in their article in Medium states: “What they’re saying is true: They honestly don’t need anything”; but, it ultimately leaves you as the odd one out for not even having a little something. Because we all know there is always something that they can use.
Making something customizable yourself is one of the most classic and possibly cheapest options. Giving something personally made by you shows the thought and care you put into making something just for them, and it becomes a one of a kind item to keep.
- Photo album
First, you want to gather the images you want to include and make sure they have pictures of both you and them. Print these pictures out and glue them to a folded piece of paper. Repeat this process and then staple the paper together. Now, you can decorate the pages, and maybe write a little heartfelt message under each picture.
This idea is a perfect way to make something memorable for the person receiving it. Of course, we all have phones and can take pictures on them, but it becomes a different story when they can physically turn through a few pages, including you and them. But if you don’t want to do something super craftsy or have a disability that hinders you, “ We live in the digital age, meaning there are so many new and easy ways to access our most heartfelt memories that don’t involve paper cuts*(Elien & Cherner)” There are still ways to do these things.
Maybe your mom or dad is interested in cooking, a fitness activity, fashion wear, etc. This is the perfect opportunity to buy them a few months – or years– of something. This can range from sports gear to spa memberships, Tech Gadgets, wine subscriptions, cooking ingredients, or international foods. There is a variety to narrow down, but this is ideal when you have a general idea of what your mom or dad likes.
This way, you won’t have to worry about getting something specific and can get something that falls within their general interest. The item is tailored to the person and is long- lasting. The ongoing benefits are also a thoughtful reminder for them that you got them.
One way to keep track of things that people may want is to watch out for things they may possibly want. This can be done when you are out shopping together, and they look at something for a long while. If there is a number of items they show interest in, you should quickly write it down in your notes app in order not to forget.
A third idea you can use to narrow down your decision, is to consider more than just what they like. This can include things like their health, past interests, or habits. This process of elimination can allow you to rule out their limits. If you’re getting a gift for an older person, you can eliminate something super active if they can’t move around well.
These three options give a variety of thoughtful ideas to help steer you in the right direction for the perfect gift, ensuring they will be both happy and surprised with their gift. It relieves the stress of getting one “perfect” item, ultimately leaving them content.
