Ever received a gift you felt was a “”panic gift”? Like your partner bought it at the checkout stand or airport kiosk.
I mean “panic gifts” like:
• Wilted flowers.
• A key chain from the departure gate.
• Generic bag of chocolates.
• Anything sealed in clear plastic.
And when you received this “panic gift”, how did you feel?
A survey found: 24% of men and 23% of women who received a “panic gift” didn’t receive a romantic message. They heard a rude message – even if unintended.
For people whose Romantic Preference Grouping is little gifts, the romantic message they receive with the gift is
- I was in your thoughts.
- You paused in the middle of our busy day just for me.
- You took time to choose something I’d enjoy.
So, how do you avoid sending a rude “panic gift” message to your partner when time is tight?
Here are two thoughtful ideas.
Create a stash of small gifts. Gifts you’ve already selected for them. Gifts your partner doesn’t know about. And a stash you can easily access if needed.
I start buying Christmas gifts in January. They go into my “secret inventory.” If before Christmas something unexpected comes up, I don’t panic. I choose a gift previously bought for my sweetheart.
Another idea, give them an experience they’d enjoy. A joint adventure. Maybe an invitation to take a class together. Tickets to a local attraction or unique food tour. A certificate they can redeem when they choose to for a shared activity.
A little advance planning avoids eyerolling, “panic gifts” and turns that last-minute gift into the message you want your partner to receive: “You’re important to me and I found this gift specifically for you.” You create a shared Romantic Moment for your partner.
I’m curious. What will you do to avoid giving a “panic gift”?
Robert Beagle, LET.
