The Art of Thoughtful Gifting: Why Intentionality Matters More Than Price Tags

Gift-giving should be an act of thoughtfulness, not just an excuse to offload random sale items or things you bought in bulk. Yet, so many gifts these days feel more like an afterthought than a heartfelt gesture. Why? Because too often, gifts reflect what the giver likes or finds convenient, rather than what the recipient would truly appreciate.

The Problem with Impersonal Gifts

We’ve all been there—receiving a gift that has little to do with who we are but somehow still comes with the dreaded phrase, “It made me think of you!” Maybe you’re vegan, and you get a generic cookbook with only one plant-based recipe. Maybe you love music, and someone grabs the first music-themed mug they see. These gifts come from a place of good intentions, but they often miss the mark.

Even worse, some gifts feel like they were bought purely because they were on sale or convenient to grab. If a gift doesn’t align with the recipient’s interests or needs, it becomes less of a thoughtful gesture and more of a burden. The result? Clutter, regifting, or the awkward pressure of pretending to love something you really don’t.

Rethinking Gift-Giving: It’s Not About the Money

The value of a gift isn’t in its price tag but in its relevance and meaning. That means you don’t have to break the bank to give something special—just put in a little extra thought. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Ask Yourself: Who Is This Really For?

Before buying, think: Am I picking this because I like it, or because they will? A great gift should reflect their personality, not just your personal taste or convenience.

2. Handmade, Customised, or Well-Chosen Thrifted Items Win

Something handcrafted, personalised, or carefully selected second-hand often holds more sentimental value than a mass-produced item. A thrifted book by their favorite author or a custom illustration can mean so much more than a random trendy gadget.

3. Money or Gift Cards Aren’t Lazy—They’re Practical

If you’re unsure what someone wants, cash or a gift card is always a good idea. It allows them to choose something they truly need or enjoy.

4. Experiences Over Things

Instead of buying another trinket, consider gifting an experience—tickets to a concert, a class they’ve wanted to take, or even just a thoughtful, handwritten letter. Experiences create lasting memories, while objects can be forgotten.

5. When in Doubt, Just Ask

There’s nothing wrong with directly asking someone what they’d like. It eliminates the guesswork and ensures they get something meaningful. If you want to keep an element of surprise, ask for a few options and pick from them.

The Burden of Unwanted Gifts

Nobody wants to seem ungrateful, but receiving a gift that doesn’t fit your life comes with an unspoken pressure—what do you do with it? Donate it? Hide it in a drawer? Pretend to use it when the gift-giver visits? A gift should never feel like an obligation.

The bottom line? Thoughtful gifts matter more than expensive ones. Whether it’s a handwritten letter, a personalised keepsake, or simply an item chosen with care, the best gifts show that you truly know and appreciate the person you’re gifting to. So, next time you shop, make it meaningful.