✒ As Tim Harford mentioned in another article, gift-givers tend to focus too much on the moment that the gift is unwrapped, while for recipients that moment is merely the start of the gift’s story.

He suggested that we focus on what the recipient will actually do with the gift, rather than aiming for effect at the moment of unwrapping.

Romance, surprise and delight are nice, but don’t be ashamed to be practical. And if you’re not sure what gift might be appreciated, ask.