This is what you should do if you don't like a Christmas present
Created: 12/23/2022, 8:21 am
By: Robin Dittrich
Christmas 2022 is just around the corner.
But what to do if you don't like the presents on Christmas Eve?
A psychologist explains.
Hamburg – Who doesn't know this: You sit under the Christmas tree by candlelight, open the gift and your socks or your fifth hat are already smiling at you.
A lot of people don't know how to handle gifts they aren't happy about.
The psychologist Matthias Richter explains to the German Press Agency (DPA) what consumers should do with unwanted gifts.
Public holidays: | Christmas |
|---|---|
Special feature: | Christmas presents |
Problem: | Unwanted gifts |
Solution: | Open your mouth – but considerately |
What consumers should do if they don't like a Christmas present
How should consumers deal with Christmas gifts they don't like?
Smile wearily or even pretend that the self-knitted sweater with a cat motif is the best present ever?
As the psychologist Matthias Richter told the dpa, neither of the two is usually the right solution.
Rather, people are allowed to tell their friends and family if they don't like a gift - but with a little caution.
A "What is that terrible thing?" is probably not a solution.
This is what you should do if you don't like Christmas presents.
© Imago (symbol image)
"Basically, I think honesty is the best strategy," says Matthias Richter.
White lies should not be resorted to, especially with people close to you.
Even a small insult can be accepted.
Better than the present disappearing into oblivion after Christmas.
Then it can happen that the other person asks why the new piece of clothing is never worn or where the great vase from Christmas is.
This is how gift recipients find themselves in need of explanation.
Honesty also lasts the longest when it comes to gifts – with a sure instinct
For psychologist Richter, it is quite normal that people sometimes go wrong when giving gifts.
Recipients should then approach carefully.
First, acknowledge that the idea or effort is appreciated.
But the ugly part has to follow: Why doesn't the gift really fit.
A way out should be sought together: Is there an exchange option?
This becomes more difficult with homemade gifts – but for the psychologist there is still no reason for a lie.
Maybe there is even someone in the family who can do more with it.
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The worst solution is to take the unwanted gifts home and throw them away or let them disappear in the deepest depths of the closet.
Of course, gifts from children should be handled differently - there is a lot more consideration required.
Refusing to buy something homemade is out of the question.
Although a white Christmas is unlikely, the festival should be harmonious.
The best way to prevent "bad" gifts: to exchange wishes beforehand.
For a little joy before the presents: send these WhatsApp greetings at Christmas.
