If you receive a bad Christmas gift,be gracious,then act tactfully.Credit:Getty Images
While I didn’t disclose my relative’s faux pas and received her gift with genuine enthusiasm,it pays to have some strategies for dealing with Christmas presents you don’t like,or,as in my case,one that has been re-gifted.
It’s normal to feel disappointed:Clinical psychologist and author Dr Rebecca Ray says feeling disappointed by a lacklustre Christmas gift is normal. “It’s common to feel awkward,disappointed,or even guilty because the gift doesn’t suit your needs or taste,” she says. “These feelings often arise from wanting to appreciate the thought behind the gift but struggling with its practical or personal value.”
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Show gratitude before you open:According to Julie Lamberg-Burnet,founder of the Sydney School of Protocol,there is a general etiquette that should be followed when receiving a gift. “The most important thing is to acknowledge the gift and be gracious when accepting it,even if you are anticipating it’s not something you might want,” she says. “Say,‘Thank you so much for thinking of me,’ a sincere phrase that doesn’t overdo it.”
Lamberg-Burnet says this action respects and acknowledges the thought,time,and effort that went into planning,purchasing,and wrapping your gift rather than what the item is.
How to react to a bad gift:If you are close to the gift-giver and feel comfortable,it may be acceptable to tell them in a kind and respectful way,such as asking if you may exchange the colour or style,Lamberg-Burnet says.