Seriously, Don’t Give These Gifts This Christmas

Ah, the art of gift-giving—a delicate balance between thoughtfulness and “What were you thinking?” Let’s save some Christmases by discussing what not to wrap up this year.

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1. Re-gifted items. That scented candle Aunt Karen gave you last year? It has her name written all over it—figuratively, if not literally. People know. Avoid the awkwardness.

2. Generic gift cards. While a gift card can work, handing over one from the gas station says, “I stopped caring halfway down aisle three.” At least pretend you tried.

3. Fitness equipment. Unless someone explicitly asked for a treadmill or resistance bands, steer clear. Nothing screams “You should work on yourself” quite like a gift that doubles as a passive-aggressive comment.

4. Pets. A puppy may seem like a heartwarming gift, but it’s really just handing someone a decade-long responsibility. Unless you're ready to care for it yourself, stick to stuffed animals.

5. Cheap knockoffs. A “Rolexx” watch or “AirPuds” won’t fool anyone, and now you’ve spent money to look like you don’t value the person.

6. Self-help books. Even if well-intentioned, these can come across as an unsolicited intervention. Nobody wants to unwrap How to Stop Being a Mess on Christmas morning.

7. Socks and underwear. Yes, they’re practical. But unless you’re buying for a spouse or someone who requested these essentials, they scream “I gave up.”

8. Anything controversial. Political books, overly personal items, or gag gifts that cross a line? Just no. Christmas morning should feel festive, not like a minefield.

9. “Decor” items. Unless you know their style perfectly, don’t impose a neon vase or abstract art piece on their living space.

Stick to thoughtful, personal, and safe gifts. Because the only thing worse than a bad gift is having to fake enthusiasm for it.