Have We Forgotten What It Means To Give?

The holiday season is right around the corner and, with it comes one of the most beautiful traditions we have: gift-giving. Every year, the rush, traffic and stress build up as people scramble to find last minute presents for their loved ones. We want to give our loved ones meaningful and thoughtful gifts, it just becomes harder every year. The question that comes up is: “How can we bring back the joy and meaning of gift-giving?”

Back when we were kids, every gift carried a meaning. Gift-giving used to be thoughtful and thoroughly planned. Gifts meant something because the price tag was irrelevant, whether they were purchased from a big-name brand or handmade at the kitchen table, what mattered was the care behind it, the fact that someone chose that gift for a reason. Life moved a little slower, and that gave us the space to think deeply about the people we love.

Not only does it feel good to receive a gift that shows that you’re seen, it feels equally good to be the one giving it. When you plan a gift for a parent, sibling, partner or friend, you pay closer attention to each step of the process. You dedicate time and attention to make sure that person will love that gift as much as you love them. Wrapping a gift is enjoyable in itself, and unwrapping it is the best part.

The best gifts you can give to your loved ones are the handmade, customizable ones. They feel warmer and more thoughtful because they truly showcase how much you know someone. Having the ability to personalize a gift makes the gifting process  not only easier, but also feel more authentic. What you choose for someone also says a lot about you, because through a customized gift, you’re able to leave a little piece of yourself in it, a personal touch that makes it truly special.

So maybe the question isn’t whether thoughtful gifting still exists, but how can we reconnect with it. When was the last time you received a gift that made you feel truly seen? Or gave one that you planned ahead with excitement?

This year, we have the chance to slow down, even just a little, and bring intention back into the holiday season. We shouldn’t let the world dictate how we show love. With a bit of reflection and early planning, we can bring back the joy, authenticity, and warmth that gift-giving used to carry so effortlessly.

Thoughtful gift giving isn’t lost. It’s right here, waiting for us to rediscover it.