For More Love, Economical Gifts Make the Most Sense

Christmas Day is quickly approaching and there are men and women all across America scurrying to find the “perfect” gift for that special person in their lives. Unfortunately, a number of those relationships will be defined by the gifts exchanged, and not by the value of the relationship overall.

The ugly truth is that I’ve heard too many stories of the richness of the holidays going sour because gifts didn’t meet the expectation of the recipient.

Now, you might respond by saying there’s no harm in making your desires known. Men can tend to think, “If I really want a suit, maybe I should drop a quick hint and it’ll be mine.” Women might say, “If I really want that necklace or purse and he gets it for me, does he really love me?

The simple answer to both questions? Maybe.

During the dating phase of relationships many make gift requests without truly knowing the financial situation of the person they are involved with. If the person you are dating has the financial capability, then gift requests are a matter of preference. However, if he or she doesn’t, then your requests run the risk of sending your significant other further into debt. You don’t want that right?

Try doing something a little differently this year. Ask the person you are dating to come up with gift ideas based on simplicity and creativity. Encourage your significant other to make economical purchases that will have a positive impact on them financially. You don’t want your significant other still trying to pay off your 2012 gifts this same time next year because they had to use a credit card.

Shop smart! Remember economical gifts make the most sense. And have a truly happy holiday.

Kenny Pugh is a Life & Relationship Strategist, Author of ‘Can You Do It Standing Up?’, Associate Minister, Chat Kafe Radio Show Host (http://www.chatkafeonline.com), singles leader and sought-after speaker on singleness, relationships, finances and life. You can find more information about Kenny at http://www.kennypugh.com. You can follow him on Facebook at Kenny Pugh or on Twitter @mrkennypugh.