Sometimes we give gifts out of obligation, choosing items from a registry that are predestined to be used, if not loved, or sending flowers because, well, flowers make people happy. And other ...

“Cutting down your gift-giving list can make the holidays less stressful when the tradition has become an obligation rather than a joyful experience,” said Diane Gottsman, an etiquette expert ...

Not giving is sometimes a good idea. Useless objects create clutter and damage the planet. Unwanted gifts set up burdensome obligations. A gift often generates an obligation to reciprocate.

because “the obligation of family gifts is strong.” I’ve long stopped giving gifts to casual friends, but I have started to reconsider whether I should extend gifts to the partner of my best ...

Other typical bad gift-giving habits stem from pure self-centeredness ... The fact that it’s not being presented out of any ...

Taking away obligation also frees up emotional ... motivating, and uplifting gifts. Back to top What to give: A friend who is moving away? I’m sorry to hear your friend is moving away; what ...

I always remember birthdays, and love giving thoughtfully chosen gifts to the people in my life ... but an expectation on their part does not mean an obligation on yours. Tell them, “We ...