Break the Rules of Gift Giving

Have you ever wondered what Christmas would be like if the holiday didn't include gift giving? Think about it. No gift lists, no crowded malls, no worrying if the recipient will like it. No waiting in lines to make after-Christmas returns or exchanges. The same goes for other gift-giving occasions as well. Weddings, birthdays, anniversaries and graduations -- they would all certainly be simpler if we didn't have to worry about presents.

Don't get me wrong -- I enjoy giving and receiving gifts just as much as the next guy. The problem is that the gift giving ritual can be very stressful and taxing to an already-tight budget. 

There are just so many unwritten "rules" about gift exchanges. Following all the rules could put you in the poorhouse fast. Let's take a look at a few of "The Rules" and how breaking them might actually be a better, more thoughtful way to handle gift exchanges. 

Rule #1: Gifts must be new. 
Who says a gift has to be new? Some of the best gifts I've ever given or received have come from flea markets and garage sales. The perfect gift is the perfect gift, no matter where it came from. Of course, you wouldn't want to give something that looks like it was pulled out of a garbage dumpster, but if looks a little used, so what? 

Rule # 2: You must spend a certain amount on gifts. 
This one is closely related to the "must be new" rule. If you come across a terrific bargain on a gift that seems perfect, you may actually feel guilty for spending so little. Remember the "perfect gift" rule. If it is something the recipient wants or needs, it won't matter to her how much you spent. In fact, if she's a penny pincher too, she would probably be envious of your savvy shopping skills. 

Rule #3: If someone gives you a gift, you must reciprocate. 
Inevitably there will be times when you receive a gift from someone who wasn't on your gift list. When this happens, you have a couple of choices. You can either scramble awkwardly to reciprocate or you can just accept the gift graciously. In most cases, the giver would probably rather hear "I'm sorry I don't have anything for you but I appreciate your thoughtfulness," than to know your gift to him was just an afterthought motivated by guilt. 

Rule #4: There should be "equality" in gift giving. 
If someone gives you an expensive gift, do you feel bad about giving her a something inexpensive? There's a big difference between being cheap and being careful with your money. Being cheap is being stingy when you could easily afford to spend more. Being careful is showing your love with gifts that are within your means. If your friends and relatives really care about you, they wouldn't want you to overspend what you can comfortably afford. Remember that it really is the thought that counts.