Black Friday…Cyber Monday…holiday gift giving is back.
While many couples love the
whole gift-giving thing, others don’t. This can cause huge problems if you and your partner are on opposite sides of this coin.
The solution? Find common ground. But even if you are on the same side of the coin, these tips might help make the holidays a little merrier.
Gift Giving for Married Couples
1. Wants vs. Needs.
The ideal gift should be something that the recipient wants (hello).
Note, there is a distinct difference between wants and needs; gifts should strictly address the former (wants).
You might think your wife needs a vacuum cleaner
but what she really wants is a trip to the day spa.
You might think your husband needs new underwear and socks but what he really wants is tickets to his favorite sports team.
Consider their tastes and desires.
Here's an idea: What about giving your loved one the budget to pursue an expensive hobby that they have been dying to get into?
2. Don’t rush it.
Picking a gift should never be done in a hurry.
If you’re too busy to put some thought into it, wait until you have time to find that special gift for you loved one.
In marriage, a few well-thought out romantic ideas are better than several hurriedly bought gifts.
3. Expect nothing.
This is worth repeating: When you give a gift, expect nothing in return.
This may sound cliché but you wouldn’t believe how many couples will give flowers in search of forgiveness or chocolates in search of intimacy.
Expecting something in return makes it difficult for the other person to enjoy their gift because they’ll be worried about what to give to you.
4. Don’t overlook this...
Sometimes, handmade gifts are the right way to go.
They don’t have to be crafts or hand-made cards if you’re not into that sort of thing. It can be a home cooked meal, a massage or other such gifts that can be given
throughout your marriage at no extra cost.
5. It’s about this...
Remember to spend quality time with your spouse since no material gift can fill that void.
If you have been wondering how
to be romantic with your partner, worry no more. These tips will start the process of bringing romance back into your relationship this holiday season.
Until next time, this is Mike Tucker and I want YOU to be mad about marriage.
