Do you cringe when your child opens a gift from a beloved family member because you know that they won’t be able to hide their disdain for another coloring book when all they really wanted a PS5 game? You gently nudge them, remind them to say thank you, and tell them “It’s the thought that counts.”
Thankfully, it gets a little easier as kids get older to accept all gifts with graciousness, and by adulthood, they can slap on a smile with the rest of us over even the most obscure gifts.
While it’s completely true that it really is the thought that counts, there are some gifts that you really don’t care for, and you don’t want taking up space in your home. And that’s perfectly ok. They wanted to give you a gift out of kindness. It’s the gesture of showing you that they care and that they think of you. They do not want to burden you with guilt over what to do with a gift that you don’t like.
One disclaimer before we get started. For purposes of this blog post, we’re going to assume the relationship between you and the giver is generally healthy and that the gift was not given out of some type of passive aggressive or manipulative behavior. Those gifts and relationships are for a different blog post and maybe even a different writer.
Ok, back to it. Here are 4 things to do with gifts that you do not want.
Give it back! If she loved the gift, and you like it but it just doesn’t work for you, ask her if she wants it back to use for herself. Seriously. Be honest and sincere. Say that you love item but it just doesn’t work for you (your wardrobe, décor, etc.), but that you are so appreciative of the thoughtfulness and are excited that she would be able to use it.
Donate it! I’m sure you were expecting this one! Donation centers love receiving new items to sell in their stores or to give to people in their programs.
Regift it! Ok, ok, I can’t endorse this one completely. If you tell the new recipient that you received it as a gift, tried to use it, and just don’t love it, then you can totally pass it along. Just don’t wrap it and pass it off as a gift you purchased for them! It can get awkward.
Bite the bullet, and keep it anyway. If the giver is incredibly special to you, and you know it would hurt her feelings if you didn’t love the gift, then just keep it. It doesn’t have to have a prominent position in your home or it doesn’t have to be your new favorite sweater. Remember, people > objects.
It’s been about a month since Christmas, so take inventory of what Christmas gifts you received that have not found a place in your life. Maybe one of these tips will help you figure out what to do with it.
Thanks for reading!
Caroline
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