Who Really Deserves a Christmas Gift?
That friendly crossing guard who helps your child get to school safely – does he deserve a Christmas gift?
What about your condo’s security and mail team?
Your coworkers? Your boss? Your barber?
You get the idea. Throughout the year, you interact with many people – sometimes hundreds. So the real question becomes: Where do you draw the line? Does everyone you say hello to deserve a Christmas present? Of course not – unless your Christmas budget is the size of a small country’s treasury.
Where to Draw the Line in Holiday Gift Giving
1. It’s About the Value They Bring
If someone has consistently added value to your life – made it easier, safer, or more pleasant – they may deserve a token of appreciation. Take the crossing guard, for example. He doesn’t just help your child cross the road; he gives you peace of mind, which is priceless. That kind of value is worth acknowledging.
Consider your manager. Do they support your growth, help you learn, and make your work life better? That’s value – and perhaps worthy of a gift. What about coworkers? That depends on your relationship and how much they’ve contributed – not just once or twice, but genuinely throughout the year.
2. It’s Also About the Relationship
Not all relationships are equal. A close friend who checks in regularly may be more deserving than a cousin you haven’t spoken to in years – even if they live next door. You don’t need to send gifts to every sibling, cousin, aunt, or uncle. Not only would that feel excessive, but it could place others in an awkward position if they weren’t planning to reciprocate.
3. Don’t Forget Your Budget
Before you make any list, set your gifting budget. And stick to it.
If your total budget is $500, start by deciding who will receive a gift and how much you’ll allocate to each. Not everyone needs to receive the same value, but avoid spending 80% of your budget on a few people while leaving only scraps for the rest – unless that’s intentionally your plan
Final Thought
Christmas giving is meaningful – but it should be thoughtful, not stressful. Set boundaries, define your budget, and focus on people who truly added value or strengthened your life this year. The goal isn’t to impress – it’s to express appreciation without carrying financial guilt into January.