With Christmas coming soon, everyone’s gearing up to celebrate. Planning dinners, reunions, times to meet up and tree decorating. Not only that but preparing presents for our loved ones is a staple in Christmas traditions, after all, we need to share the joy!
However, while we can plan to give things to others, we might not always receive what we want. What should you do in a situation like that? Obviously, you can’t reject it—that would be extremely rude. So, here are a few things to consider if you find yourself in this awkward situation.
1. Regifting

One possible way to deal with something you don’t want is to simply re-gift it. Instead of holding on to the item, you can repackage it and give it to someone else. Since you haven’t used it, it will be brand new and in tip-top condition, making it suitable for gifting. Then, you can simply hand it off to another person!
Just be sure not to forget who originally gave you the gift, or, rather than re-gifting, you’ll end up returning it. You’ll then come across as ungrateful, which is not the impression you want to leave on anyone. So, keep track of where your gifts come from—and where they go.
2. Donations

If you don’t want something or have no use for it, a good option is to donate it. Bless others who aren’t as fortunate, or who may need it more than you. For example, if you already have enough shoes, or they’re not your style, why not donate your new pair to someone who needs them? In true Christmas spirit, you can spread good vibes and make a small difference in someone else’s life.
3. Alter it

If you receive clothing that’s not in your style, or size, you could let your creativity flow, and alter it! With the materials you have, you can create a whole new item that matches your personality better. That ill-fitting t-shirt that you received can become a new pair of gloves, or maybe a bag if you have enough artistry inside of you. Instead of throwing it out, adapt it to match yourself. Then you won’t just have a new accessory, you’ll have one tailored specifically to your personality, to really display yourself to others.
4. Sell it

Feeling like a business owner? You could always take the more lucrative option of reselling your unwanted gifts. Simply offer it up on the internet and see if anyone else might have a better use for it. This way you can earn some money, and get yourself a little treat using that money. In a way, you still get a nice gift from the whole situation. So use your entrepreneurial skills and make a little extra income.

So with these various methods, you should be able to easily deal with unwanted gifts, and turn it into a welcome situation. Of course, just because you don’t want a gift, it doesn’t mean you aren’t grateful. Someone put thought into the gift, so don’t be rude to them when you receive it, even if you don’t plan on keeping it.
Likewise, put thought and effort into giving gifts to other people. If you want good presents, you should put in the energy to give meaningful gifts as well. After all, what goes around comes around. Happy gift shopping everyone!
Janae Lee contributed to this article.