What to do with Presents you don’t like
Christmas time can be an extremely exciting one with family members coming together to exchange gifts but there are often awkward moments whilst you are unwrapping presents when you come across a gift that you do not actually like. Knowing how to react in these situations is important so as not to upset the person who has given it to you's feelings but also so as to ensure that they do not make the same mistake again the following year.
- Be polite.If the person who has bought you the gift is present whilst you are opening it ensure that you are not rude with your reaction if you do dislike it. Thank them for the gift and perhaps suggest that you would have preferred it in a different style/colour/isn't quite your taste. This way the person will not feel as though you don't appreciate the thought but they will be aware that it wasn't an appropriate gift for you. Although it isn't as enjoyable as lying to a person and telling them how much you adore the present it should hopefully help them to understand your tastes better so that they do not keep buying you items you don't like in the future.
- Ask if you can exchange.Perhaps ask the person who sent you the present whether you can swap it for something else that you would like more. When doing so ensure that you give some positives in your request "Oh I do like this shop I usually get some lovely things from here, it's just this isn't quite right..." so that the sender feels as though you have still thanked and complimented them. Being able to exchange it for something else will enable you to have something that you would prefer.
- Take it to charity.If you do not feel as though you can ask for an exchange or you are unable to have one then instead of having the item taking up space in your house take it to the charity shop or to a homeless shelter where other people less fortunate will be able to appreciate the gift. This way you may not be making any money from it but you will be happy to know that at least you are helping others and doing your bit for charity at Christmas time.
- Sell/swap it.Use the likes of online auction sites and classifieds to sell the item and then use the money to buy yourself something which you would like. Alternatively swap it with a friend or family member for a gift that they received which they also do not like but that you do! This way you both win; you both get rid of a gift that you do not like and both get one that you do like in return!
At Christmas there are often presents that we receive that are unwanted and not liked. It is important to remain polite and not upset the person who sent it and it is up to you how you do this; will the person be offended if you say you're not happy? Will you be able to request an exchange? Selling or swapping the item or giving it away to a charity can be a good way to pass on the gift so it still goes to a good home.
