Sometimes a gift giver just doesn’t hit the mark. Sometimes they try to give you something nice, other times they don’t, but their gift just doesn’t turn out the way you hoped. So what can do you do about it?
- Regift it (within reason)
As long as you know the person isn’t going to be looking for the gift, you can absolutely regift it. Does the stuffed animal give you nightmares? Give it to someone who would enjoy it. Send it home so you don’t have to look at it, or if your SO will be looking for you to have it. After a while, let it disappear from your home once you think they’ve forgotten about it.
- Keep it as a keepsake
I got a gift from my ex-boyfriend shortly before we broke up. I knew when he gave it that we were over. I wore it once and it now is in a memorabilia box from high school. It’s not that I don’t like it but I don’t want to be reminded of him.
- Pass it around with your friends
If you have a stuffed animal problem, give it to a friend, especially if they are studying abroad. Depending on the size, your friend should be able to fit it into their luggage. They can take pictures of the animal at landmarks and send them to you. It’s like Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants without the traveling pants.
Good luck! Whatever you decide to do with it is the right move for you. If you can’t bear to look at it, give it to someone who will appreciate it.