We all know that giving gifts to the people we love is one of life’s best feelings – a special feeling that comes from knowing you’ve picked out something that will bring them joy and delight. It’s a feeling that’s reinforced with the fact that gift-giving is a form of altruism and a way to show our friends and family that we care about them and value their friendship.
But while there’s no harm in buying your loved ones the shiny, trendy toy or kitchen gadget that’s right on trend, it’s worth remembering that a more meaningful and long-lasting present is often one that celebrates their unique passions or inside jokes. And, as it turns out, a sentimental gift doesn’t have to cost a fortune. In fact, the “best gifts ever” can come in all shapes and sizes – from a framed photo of you two together to a kit of activities for a date night (or a day off).
What’s more, according to recent research published in Current Directions in Psychological Science, gifts that are utilitarian rather than decorative tend to be valued more, perhaps because they’re a reminder of your thoughtfulness. And that’s why we’ve dialed in some expert gifters for tips on how to find just such a useful present, from practical gadgets they won’t already have — like Bee’s Wrap reusable food wraps, which are way cuter than your standard clingfilm — to pantry staples that’ll help them make their favorite dishes even more delicious.
Another consideration when shopping for a gift is to try and avoid anything that might send a negative message (even unintentionally). And while a gym membership or anti-aging product could technically be useful, they’re more likely to cause your recipient pain than pleasure, and can put a strain on the relationship.
Finally, consider any special occasions that your friends and family might be celebrating in the next year. Whether it’s a wedding, bar or bat mitzvah, a sweet 16 or quinceanera, putting together a time capsule is a great way to commemorate the occasion while also creating a memento that they’ll be able to look back on in the future. You can include photos, tickets stubs, brochures and other memorabilia from your adventures together, or simply record a video message for them to watch later on.
Some of the most important gifts are the ones that honor our relationships. Whether that’s the obvious bond forged in a shared love of garage rock or the more subtle ones carved out by years spent sipping wine and talking about politics at the coffee table. Whatever the case, gifting those who matter to us is a great way to show them that we care. And, as we all know, when it comes to that warm fuzzy feeling, nothing beats a little oxytocin.
