How to Be a Better Gift-Giver in 2009

Be a Great Gift-Giver. Photo courtesy of Saquan Stimpson/monstershaq200 0

Resolve to be a better friend, child, spouse, or parent. Do that by being a better gift-giver. Giving the perfect gift means you’re a great listener, generous and it shows you care. It doesn’t mean you lavish loved ones with pricey presents. Here are ten ways to be a better gift-giver this year.

Get Gifts Delivered On Time

Yes, they make belated birthday cards, but that doesn’t mean you should be using them. Resolve to get gifts to their destination on time– or even early. Get yourself a birthday reminder book, write down everyone’s birthday and review it bi-monthly so you’re sure to be on time.

Step Up Your Gift Wrap

Harness some of you creativity and use it for making your packages a little prettier. Add ribbon, bows or use alternative materials to add some spice. Putting a little extra time into the wrapping will show you care.

Avoid Gift Cards

Try to give your loved one something a little more personal than plastic. Gift cards can come across as a last-minute thought, which isn’t part of being a better gift-giver.

Listen

Great gift-givers are good always good listeners. Start taking notice of small comments loved ones make about things that might make their lives easier. Write these ideas down and pull them out when the need for a gift arises.

Look for Individuality

Try hitting up local shops instead of chain stores. It will give your gift more personality and individuality. It’s more likely to be a gift that your friend or family member has never seen before. And that will make it even more special.

Make a Card

Instead of hitting up a card shop, try making your own. It’s not just a practice for kindergartens. It can be a good creative outlet and a great way to add a personal touch.

Forget About What You Want

We all tend to give gifts we want for ourselves. Avoid that practice! It means you’re giving gifts that don’t necessarily fit the person you’re giving them to.

Think Indulgence

People love to receive gifts they don’t want to spend their own money on. Think of gifts that are indulgent and extravagant. You’re loved one will appreciate being able to enjoy something they wouldn’t fork over their own money for.

Make Homemade

Homemade gifts are extremely thoughtful and can be appropriate for just about everyone on your list. Giving a homemade gift may not be expensive, but it’s still very generous.

Don’t Require a Reason

Gifts don’t always have to be for birthdays, anniversaries or weddings. You can give gifts for no reason. And sometimes those ones are the most thoughtful of all.