I have a fun part-time job where I work with teens and young adults. Yesterday one of my co-workers mentioned that September is the month with the most birthdays! Wow, I believe it. I have 7 just in my family.
Not Difficult or Expensive
Finding a meaningful gift doesn’t have to be difficult or break the bank.
Thought
Gift giving should be purposeful. No one needs meaningless clutter in their lives. The best gifts show that you care and are thinking about the recipient. Here are the three steps to take when deciding on a gift.
Hobbies
First, think about their hobbies or the way they spend their free time. Do they like to go out to eat? (restaurant gift card). Do they like to go to a movie or watch movies at home (movie gift basket with their favorite beverage, snack or candy). Maybe they love plants or flowers (bouquet or plant).
What Do They Wish They Had
Second, what have they been saying they wish they had? “I would love to have a new lens for my camera? There is a new book out by my favorite author. Oh I could use a new pair of pajamas.” Listening and remembering something they mentioned, even if it was months ago, shows you care.
Ravens
One time I mentioned to my husband that I loved ravens now because they represent wisdom and no fear. 5 months later I received a raven wing necklace for Christmas. I was so shocked because I hadn’t mentioned ravens again. (Way before my blog!) The fact that he had listened and gotten me something meaningful was so special!
Past Reactions
The third step is to think about what you have given them in the past. How did they react? I usually give my mom flowers for her birthday and she is always so excited. One year I got her a restaurant gift card to her favorite restaurant and her enthusiasm wasn’t nearly as much. So, I am back to flowers. I know she loves them and I can order them and not have to package and send something that may not make it on time. Sometimes I send a separate card so she gets 2 things. I write something that I remember or appreciate about her in the card to make it more special.
Appreciated, Understood and Loved
I hope these ideas got you thinking about how to make your Birthday recipient feel appreciated and understood. After all that is what gift giving is all about. Gifts are not only fun but they should show the recipient that they are understood and appreciated and loved!