Maintaining a friendship with an ex can be a delicate and challenging situation, but it is certainly possible with open communication and mutual respect. To that end, as the time comes to cross some names off your Christmas shopping list, choosing a gift for an ex will sometimes have you banging your head against the wall.
Not to worry, though, I’ve got your back with a diverse Christmas gift guide for all types of neutral gifts that can fit the nature of almost any relationship and or communication!
As all relationships live and end differently, not all will immediately transition into friendships — and that’s OK. Fresh wounds are especially difficult to care for over the holiday seasons, so if you need to skip Secret Santa this year to allow for a period of healing and emotional distance, so be it.
But when moving forward as friends after a break-up, shift the focus from the romantic aspect of the relationship to the positive qualities that make you good friends. Celebrating your shared interests, values, and experiences can help build the bones for a wonderful friendship.
These interests can also guide you on your search for the perfect — yet not romantic — gift for them! After all, it is the season of forgiveness… right?
Fitness Tracker ($28)
Perfect for the gym rat, this is a stylish and functional accessory that doesn’t have to be extremely pricy!
JBL Wireless Earbuds ($35)
This can be a single, high-quality gift they can use for workouts or daily use.
Barnes & Noble Gift Card ($25)
If they are a bookworm, Let them choose their next literary adventure.
Cookbook Stand ($16)
If your ex enjoys cooking, consider a cookbook stand – an underrated and functional gift!
Sports Team Hoodie ($40)
Jerseys, caps, or other gear from his favorite sports team are always gifts that never get old for sports fans — but a hoodie is always the best bet.
Travel Bag ($39)
Great for big travelers and adventurers, a backpack like this is something they’d both appreciate and use.
Candle Set ($30)
Who doesn’t love candles? Even better, this set comes with a variety of scents, so your ex can pick and choose which ones they like.
The key is to keep the gift lighthearted and free of romantic implications; as friends, exchanging these kinds of gifts can show thoughtfulness without creating any awkwardness or discomfort. Ultimately, the thought and effort you put into the gift will make it meaningful!