I strongly agree with the idea that receivers are more concerned about lasting impact/usage of the gift rather than the immediate gratification. My family purchased an iPad as a gift for me last Christmas- it was a kind and generous gift. Trung figured I wouldn’t want to carry my computer around while studying abroad. While this isn’t an invalid point, my family never thought to ask me whether I needed this gift or not. My computer has been broken for almost a year now and I would have much rather the money invested into the iPad gone toward a new computer instead of upgrading a technological device that already works perfectly.

I keep a small list of items I enjoy but will not treat myself to. Among this list includes: candles, quirky tea cups, fancy pens, undergarments that fit, and mani/pedi gift cards. There are occasional other items that I want for short periods of time but never end up purchasing. I would be elated to have someone take me shopping, give me money toward these, or gift me something on my wish list- likely even more happy than surprising me with something I didn’t ask for in the first place. Gift giving is about practical value. Without practical value the gift ends up in the trash. 

Don’t “over-individuate” your gifts & The thought usually doesn’t count. I agree with these points only to an extent. Carlos gifted all of his friends hats with emoji faces that describe our personality. The greatest part of this gift if the thought behind it. Unfortunately, I will likely never wear the bright yellow emoji hat on my own head- you can’t ignore your audience completely.