Tips for Accepting Gifts

There are many social expectations in the act of giving and receiving gifts. Sometimes it can be hard to keep from blurting out the first thing that comes to your mind, like “Ewww!”, or “I will probably NEVER wear that”!

While sitcoms and movies may make light of these things, people in the real world have certain expectations when they give and receive gifts. Luckily for you we have provided some useful tips to make your holidays go that much smoother!

Below are some tips for graciously accepting gifts.

Step 1
Smile and say thank you, no matter how odd, ugly or wrong the gift is. A sincere show of appreciation is the only appropriate response! If the gift comes from someone close to you, such as a family member, relative, or close friend, you may consider giving that person a short hug or kiss on the cheek. If the person is not-so-close, you probably will not hug or kiss them, but a handshake might be just enough. Remember to look that person in the eye when you say “thank you”, it carries much more meaning with it. Try to give equal time to each person you receive a gift from.

Step 2 (optional)
Talk to the giver in private if the gift is too expensive or not suitable to the occasion. Never discuss things like this in public or a group setting.

Step 3
Keep a list of who gave you what. Write detailed thank-you cards to those people in a timely manner. Generally, sending these in the mail a few days later is appropriate. Make sure to include a personal touch, more than just a “thank you”.

Remember: Try to appreciate the act of giving. When someone goes out of their way to give you a gift, the least you can do is realize the importance of the act and sincerely thank them.

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