10 subtle ways to find out what they want for Christmas without asking

Christmas gift (KPRC 2)

There are always those few people.

You know, the people who make Christmas shopping feel impossible. As Christmas gets closer, finding them a present gets tougher. Maybe it’s because they always tell you they want nothing or because they already have everything.

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Here are 10 strategies to figure out what gift they will love this year without directly asking. Although, that always works, too.

1. Check Pinterest.

Almost no website tracks what people want for Christmas better than Pinterest. On this website, people find ideas or products they like and “pin” them to different boards to keep them organized. It’s basically an online idea board.

Consider checking out any Pinterest boards they keep for accessories, household items or even craft projects. You’re sure to find something they want.

2. Ask their friends.

This might seem obvious, but ask one of their other friends if the recipient has mentioned wanting anything recently. Be selective though. People are almost 1,000 times more likely to mention something they want for Christmas while out shopping. So, who do they most frequently shop with? Consider that person your source.

3. Request a website wish list.

If your recipient does any - I mean any - online shopping, it’s highly likely they have created a wish list on a website or two. Ask if you can peek at their Amazon or other website wish list. They will be grateful you want to get them something they actually want. Plus, there are usually multiple items on the list, so it will still be a surprise.

4. Get advice from a co-worker.

We spend the majority of our lives working, meaning our co-workers often know us pretty well. If you’re looking for a gift for someone, their co-workers might have a great idea of what they need or want.

5. Consider a donation.

You might not know what your recipient wants for Christmas, but you probably know what matters to them. Maybe they want to save the environment, have a passion for rescue animals or want to support breast cancer research. Instead of a conventional gift, consider donating to a cause in their name. It will mean a lot to them that you put money toward something they care about.

6. Get ’em a gift card.

This one isn’t exactly rocket science, but think about it. With a gift card, they will 100% get something they want for Christmas this year. If it seems too boring, spice up the idea by placing it inside a fancy or funny Christmas card, or gift it with a box of gourmet baked goods.

7. Ask them - sort of.

OK, this one is a tad sneaky. Think of someone who has similar taste to them, such as their friend or parent, then ask what they would get that person. For instance, if your significant other is a lot like his father, ask him what he would get for his father and why.

“Your father is so tough to shop for. What would be a cool gift for him he would actually use?”

8. Compare possessions.

If you know someone who has similar taste to your recipient, assess their possessions. What is something they have that your recipient doesn’t? It’s almost too easy.

9. Replace something they already have.

Your recipient no doubt has a pair of shoes with worn out soles, socks with more holes than a pool table or broken sunglasses. Examine their possessions and find something that needs an upgrade. It will impress them if you notice what their needs are.

10. Test out gift ideas.

OK, so you might not want to directly ask them, but you can find out without asking. Show them ideas you have and ask what they think of them without revealing it’s for them. It’s a clever way to get their honest opinions.


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