1. Choose a gift because you want to give, not because you have too………..so often we feel obliged to get something for that birthday, or anniversary. STOP!! Follow your heart and give because its important to you, not because you have to. Recall why you are giving and if its only out of obligation….dont bother.

2. The most expensive gift isnt necessarily the best – a small card and words of comfort can be worth much more at times ………I recall cards coming in the mail, many weeks or months after a crisis in my life. Those few words, hand written often meant more to me than any expensive gift I could ever have received. Words alone have the power to uplift, heal and offer enduring comfort.

3. Make it easy on yourself ……A huge range of gifts are now available online, accessible  24 hrs day/7days a week. Most offer easy payment options and free gift wrapping too. VOILA! ……Buying gifts just became a whole lot easier.

4. By giving a gift you are sharing a part of yourself, your personality, your thoughtfulness,your caring. How special is that? Dont underestimate the impact that a well thought out gift and meaningful gift can impart. By giving a part of yourself you are reaching out to help others.

5. Give unconditionally and expect nothing in return ……….Dont give with the expectation that you will receive a hearty thank you, even though you probably will. Give because you want to, that is enough.

6. Look for the meaning behind the gift…….So often we choose the first thing that we see, because it is easy and quick. However, sometimes this gift is the most inappropriate gift of all. When you are choosing a gift for someone you care about, picture them and follow your heart…..choose with meaning and love and the gift you are seeking will find you easily.

7. Choose retailers who also give. Many retailers now give back to the community in the form of donations to organisations or nominated charities. By supporting these retailers, you too are contributing also, which makes your purchases even more meaningful.

8. Expect that your gift will be well received…………………… No-one likes to think that their gift will not be liked or appreciated. Expect from the onset that it will and then let that expectation go. Quite often the gift we may not be so enthusiastic about turns out to be the most useful and treasured.

9. Enjoy the experience……………………allow gift giving to be not only enjoyable but meaningful.

I was thinking of a puck but that does not seem very thoughtful…

Thanks a lot!