Modern Gift Giving and Why We Should Steer Away From Materialism

In the past, giving a gift was simple and honestly kind of wasteful. You’d give something like a shirt or sweater that your recipient wouldn’t wear, and most people did it just because their parents did or because they saw their friends do it. Giving a gift nowadays is completely different and we’re finally starting to see people move away from materialism. Instead, they’re really starting to understand what we should really be thinking of when we give someone a gift.

We all know the saying that it’s the thought that counts, but it couldn’t be closer to the truth.

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Practical gifts are the best gifts

A gift that someone can use is often the best gift. If they open it up and immediately think of ways to put it to use, then you’ve successfully given a great gift. However, practicality doesn’t equal physicality. Just because a gift is thoughtful, it doesn’t mean it has to be something that we can touch and feel.

One of the biggest differences of the current generation is that the concept of a gift doesn’t need to be “real” or material. Instead, a gift can be rooted in knowledge, it can be about exploring new possibilities, and it can focus on encouraging people to do new and exciting things.

For example, introducing a friend or family member to an online study platform is a great way to help them develop their creativity. It’s a gift that makes them realize the possibilities that are available in our globally-connected world, and it’s much better than a materialistic possession such as new pairs of socks or an unhealthy amount of sweets.

In short, think about practicality when giving a gift to a friend or loved one. Give someone something that helps them uncover their passions, that inspires them, and ultimately changes the way they see their life in a positive way.

Yes, the thought really does count

We’ve probably experienced far too many situations where we’ve received a gift that clearly had no thought put into it. When it feels like that, it turns into more of an obligation than an actual gift. This is why thought really matters and why it’s the most important component in gifting.

For example, if you’re going to purchase a flower delivery for someone then it better be sentimental and you better put some thought into it. Even something simple like picking flowers of your recipient’s favourite colour or even just asking them what their favourite flowers are can be a great way to show you really care and that your gift means something.

Nobody cares if you buy the most expensive bouquet of flowers or the biggest bundle of roses. What they really care about is that you show you actually put some thought into it. At the end of the day, this approach separates the concept of gift-giving from materialism. Instead, it gives the best gift you could ever give to someone; your undivided time and consideration.