Christmas is nearly upon us which means that it’s time to start shopping for presents, if you haven’t already begun. While some people are confident in their gift giving abilities, a lot of us feel the same stress when it comes to picking out gifts for our friends and family. We don’t do well with vague answers when we ask what they want us to get them and we especially hate when they say, “Oh I don’t want anything” because we know deep down that there is something they want, whether they know it or not, and if we don’t figure out what that one thing is then we are the worst friend or family member. We aren’t actually the worst but in our minds, there is nothing worse than getting someone the wrong Christmas gift. Sure we live in a world plagued by hunger, poverty, climate change, political corruption, and discrimination, but nothing can top the embarrassment you feel when you give someone a bad gift and can tell that they don’t like it.
All jokes aside, I think we all aim to be good gift-givers during the holiday season but we share the frustration with our inability to read minds. When someone says that they don’t want anything, that’s not likely to stop you from buying them a gift. All it does is make it more difficult to find something they’d actually want. In my experience, there are a few things that almost everyone will enjoy, so if they won’t tell you what they really want, you can still give them a meaningful gift.
Baked Goods
Putting in the effort to bake something shows that you care, even if you didn’t go out shopping for someone. For friends and family members with a sweet tooth, baked goods might just be the best gifts. You know they’ll appreciate the effort and love the dessert you bake them. Luckily, it’s easy to tailor this gift to allergies and dietary restrictions, so you’re sure to come up with the perfect recipe.
Art
If you’re artistically skilled or even good at picking out art, this may be the best gift you could give. Because art is so subjective, you don’t even have to know the person’s favorite artist or style of art. All you have to do is find a piece or create something that reminds you of the person you’re giving it to. They get a thoughtful gift and you get the satisfaction that comes with watching another person express their joy at receiving your gift.
Books
I know what you’re thinking, not everyone likes to read. Books may sound like a strange gift, but they’re actually the perfect gift. I’m not saying that you should get a copy of Moby Dick for all of your friends and family. Please do not do that. Nobody, not even your worst enemy, deserves an endless 19th century description of whales. The book you get should obviously be bought with the person in mind. If they love fashion, a book about a certain designer or style could be a fun choice. Culinary buffs would love cookbooks and your traveling friends may enjoy a photography book starring their favorite destination. The possibilities are truly endless!
Of course, there are so many other things in the world that could make wonderful gifts for your family and friends, but baked goods, art, and books are extremely universal and versatile gifts. The next time you hear someone say that they “don’t want anything,” give one of these options a chance!