UNITED STATES—This is something so many Americans ask year after year: is it okay to re-gift a gift that you received from someone else? It may seem like a simple question, but I think it is more complicated than you imagine. While I think it is ok to re-gift something that you received as a present, it’s not something I’m prone to doing, and I will tell you why?
I’m a firm believer that if a person purchased you a gift, it was something they thought about before doing. Now how much time was put into making that decision is up in the air people, but I will admit, I’m one who takes a bit of time to think about the gift I give before giving because I’d hate for it to never go to use or for someone to give it to someone else.
If you’re not happy with the gift, I’d rather you return it to get something you want or at least inform me so I can perhaps find another gift that would suit your taste. This has been a tradition for me that never changes, and it probably never will. Whenever I receive a gift for either Christmas or my birthday it is something that stays in my possession. It is like a token of appreciation if you ask me. What does that mean? I’d be riddled with guilt if I allowed someone else to have a gift someone gave to me out of the kindness of their heart. Now does that mean it’s something I’ll wear all the time? Not necessarily, but it’s indeed something I will use at some point in my life.
For a person to re-gift something immediately after they receive it leaves a very sour taste in my mouth people. I’m sorry, I wish that wasn’t the case, but that is frankly how I feel and I do believe it’s in poor taste to do so. Give it a minute; let it soak in before you without hesitation give something someone gave you to someone else. Consider that perhaps after a few days or perhaps a week or so, this might be something that you actually like. You might even feel a bit of regret if you give the gift to someone else.
I would argue that this is a trend more common amongst adults. This is not likely something you will see with kids or teens. In most situations, it’s an item they may not use for a substantial amount of time, but as things progress it is likely to see the light of day. No I will make an exception to re-gift if one is willing to donate the gift they received to charity or to a person or family in need.
I think it is important to ensure you let the person who gave you that gift that you are planning to give it to someone in need. Perhaps they need it much more than you. I think most people would be okay with that decision because it’s for the greater good people. Yes, a lot of us re-gift, but I think in the end it all comes down to the person who is contemplating giving that gift away without considering possible repercussions.
