Have you started your Christmas gifts shopping? They say you should always be thankful for the gifts you receive. After all, it's the thought that counts. But what if you receive a gift that seems like giver didn't put much thought? I mean, if you know your friends you definitely know what to give them.
If you don't want to receive these gifts on my list, your friends probably don't want either.
1. Coffee mugs
I know there are people who collect coffee mugs (usually Starbucks) but if 15 of your friends give you generic coffee mugs this Christmas.... This could be the most thoughtless gift especially if your friend doesn't drink coffee.
2. Face towels
I've read in a survey somewhere that people would rather receive handkerchiefs than face towels. Most people use handkerchiefs or tissue paper so it will be more appreciated if you give them those.
3. Deodorants
Don't you think this is too personal? Aside from the fact that people have preferences when it comes to deodorants and other personal hygiene stuff, receiving these kind of toiletries can be offensive to some people. It's like insinuating something.
4. Key chains
There are cute key chains and then there are those that are inappropriate to give as a gift. Make sure you don't give a broken-heart key chain to a friend who recently ended a 10-year relationship. And please don't ever give out key chains with your photo printed on it. Seriously, we don't want to see your face every time we use our key to open our door.
5. Batteries
Unless they come with a toy or flashlight (I'm really not sure if I want to receive flashlight too), I don't think receiving batteries for Christmas will make anyone jump for joy. I know they are useful but...
6. Fruitcake
Who loves fruitcake? I think this is one of the most re-gifted present during Christmas. And no matter what you do to a fruitcake you receive, it always seem to find its way back to you.
7. Bubble wrap
Is this even a gift? It's like receiving a package wrapped in bubble wrap and you just thought "this friend of mine loves popping this so I'll send this as a gift instead of throwing in the trash.
8. Albatross bathroom deodorizer
I know that diffusers and home fragrances are the thing now but if you are on a tight budget and looking for an alternative gift, just don't give your friend an Albatross. Please. It's for the bathroom, ok?!
9. Party souvenir
Souvenirs from weddings and parties you've attended are thank you gifts of the celebrants. Don't ever think of giving them as gifts... with the thank you tags still attached. Worse scenario, you might accidentally give them back to those who gave them to you.
10. Adult toy
Unless you are attending a stag or shower party, it is inappropriate to give someone an adult toy. Even if you know that your friend is the "adventurous" type, Christmas is not the best time to give this kind of gift.
You don't need to spend a fortune to make someone happy this Christmas. Spending a few hours with friends over a cup of coffee to catch up or sending a card with a personal message is way better than wrapping toothpicks for the sake of giving a gift. Don't be confused with the real meaning of the phrase "it's the thought that counts."
What's the most thoughtless gift you've received in your life?