How to Always Give the Perfect Gift

The perfect gift is a lot of pressure, but thankfully the definition of perfect in this case is actually quite broad. A great gift is something that your loved one wanted or will use often. It ideally should delight them as well. Put all three together, and you have the “perfect” gift.

Easing away from the pressure of getting the best gift possible every year is a great first step, but it doesn’t actually help you when it comes to gift shopping. To help you with that, you’ll want to use these tips on your next shopping trip:

Keep Track of What They Say

Do yourself a favor and create a note or cloud-based document on your phone right now. Put everyone you care about and would give a gift to in that document. As you spend time with them and they make small conversation about how they need something, or about something they like, make a note of it in that document.

By making a habit of this, you can always – and easily – have a list of great gift ideas. You don’t have to use them all at once, either, so you can build up a great list of gift ideas for a variety of situations.

When in Doubt, Make it Personalized

Everything is better when it is personalized. Funny gifts, fun gifts, touching gifts – they are all better with that little personal touch. The ultimate personalized gift is something you made, but not many of us are talented enough to put a gift together that looks great. The next best thing is items that you can get professionally personalized. This can be something small and fun, like beer gifts for someone’s 21st birthday, or it can be something touching, like a locket or photo album.

Rely on Your Gut

If you are shopping online or in-person for yourself and see something that you think a friend or family member would love, buy it. There is no rule that you need to buy them a gift in the lead up to their birthday. You can instead buy something at any time and keep it until the time comes. This is the least stressful way to shop and is a great way to get them something inspired.

Solve a Problem for Them  

If you are still in need of help, then solve a problem for them. These needs-based gifts are often the most used, so don’t worry if they aren’t all that exciting. Getting someone a blender or food processor isn’t the most glamorous, but if they love making food from scratch, it is the perfect gift.

Let Them Try Something New

There are many topics, interests, and crafts that are similar to one another. Consider what your loved one likes to do, and look up activities or skills that are similar. If your friend likes to paint, then they may like to try glazing pottery. You can get them a kit or a class so that they can explore that new activity without putting their own money towards it. At worst, they had something new to try. At best, you have given them a brand new hobby.