When we give gifts, we’re expressing gratitude toward the people we love. Whether it’s a simple thank you or a way to show how important they are to us, gift-giving goes beyond the material—it’s a mutual exchange of emotions. Gratitude on one side, and appreciation on the other. However, too often, the gift represents what the giver thinks will be appreciated, not necessarily what the recipient truly wants or will enjoy.
If gratitude and appreciation are two sides of the same coin, how do we ensure that the gifts we give are a reflection of both? How do we get our loved ones—those we are most grateful for—to express what they actually want so that our gratitude aligns with their appreciation?
With Mother’s Day coming, it’s a perfect time to talk about gifts for those who mean the most to so many of us—our moms. But we all know moms can be notoriously difficult to shop for, which can make it tough to show our gratitude, respect, and love for their role in our lives. As gift givers, we want to express our gratitude, but we also want to feel appreciated in return. This dynamic can often leave us guessing and stressing over the perfect gift. So, instead of taking a shot in the dark this year, why not ask Mom to create an always-on Gift List?
Now, you might worry that this idea feels a little too commercial, but an always-on Gift List is about more than just one specific holiday. It’s a curated, year-round collection of things someone may want for any occasion—whether it’s their birthday, an anniversary, a housewarming, or just a spontaneous gift-giving moment. It’s a list of things that will actually be appreciated because they’re exactly what the recipient wants. But why is this approach so powerful for both the giver and the receiver?
One, it shows that you, as the gift giver, are paying attention. You care about what the person truly wants and you want your gift to have a meaningful impact on their life. It signals to them that you respect their interests and desires.
Two, it saves the recipient from the stress of hiding the gift, returning it, or, worst of all, pretending to like it. It’s a gift they will actually use, display, or share, which makes them feel truly appreciated.
Three, it gives the receiver permission to ask for what they want, not just on one occasion, but for any gifting moment. An always-on Gift List creates a gifting pattern where every gift received is welcomed with appreciation because it acknowledges and respects their wants. It is their biggest cheerleader!
So, this Mother’s Day, as you look to find the perfect way to celebrate your mom and express your gratitude, why not suggest that she creates her very own personal, always-on Gift List? Rather than relying on one of the millions of “101 Gifts Your Mom Actually Wants” articles, let her give you a gift guide made expressly for her. It’s a way to ensure that your gift is truly meaningful and that your gratitude matches her appreciation.
