By Marissa Piccolo
EE Lifestyle Editor
If one takes the Sheldon Cooper approach to gift giving, he or she might ponder the holiday paradox: “The entire institution of gift giving make no sense. Let’s say that I go out, and I spend 50 dollars on you, it’s a laborious activity, because I have to imagine what you need, where as you know what you need. Now I could simplify things, just give you the 50 dollars directly, and you could give me 50 dollars on my birthday, and so on, until one of us dies, leaving the other one old and 50 dollars richer. And I ask, is it worth it?”
While this logic from The Big Bang Theory may be sound, there is still no denying that gift-giving is an unavoidable, a social, and a traditional part of the holiday seasons. Unfortunately, gift giving may become a cause of concern for the unemployed, procrastinating, average high school student. However, with a few pieces of advice, gift-giving can become much less stressful, allowing for the seasonal values of charity and gratitude to truly be appreciated.
For those struggling on time and a budget, Secret Santa may be the best option. The traditional game requires a group of about five or more, and each person is assigned someone else’s name without their knowledge and becomes their “Santa.” Making sure to set a reasonable price limit allows for more focus on the one gift you are buying. Also, it makes for a fun, Secret Santa gift opening party which would not complete with the quintessential holiday necessities. Each guest brings their own unique Christmas cookies to share, festive sweaters, hot chocolate, and holiday TV special marathons.
However, the eternal questions always remains: Will they like the gift? Refrain from giving a typical gift or one a person might receive from any family member. Stores such as Urban Outfitters and Fred Flare, including their websites, have quirky, one-of-a-kind gifts that are sure to be loved. You can find a German Head Massager, Breath Spray that swears it gives you positive energy, or 3D Sticky Notes, all for $6 each, and the websites allow you to sort by price. As the Holidays approach, many stores also offer free or reduced shipping prices.
Of course, for the crafty, there is a variety of do it yourself gifts, knitted winter accessories, friendship bracelets, jewelry, or custom Christmas cookies. Instructions and tutorials can easily be found on Google or YouTube and these gifts are guaranteed to be unique. And while it may seem overdone, never underestimate the power of the gift card. In the end, however, the gift should not be such a source of stress. The holiday season is about spending time with friends and family, so do not let your consumer folly get in the way.