So why is it normalized here that booze is the only option? Other cultures can inspire us to expand our choices. Imagine making someone a home cooked meal that they can share with family and friends. Or serving locally produced products such as jams or artisanal chocolates.
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If you want to offer someone a drink, why not give them the non-alcoholic version as a gift? Gone are the days when bottled water and soda were the only non-alcoholic options on the menu. The non-alcoholic industry is booming, and many brands are participating. Go for an alcohol-free wine; a citrusy, spicy spirit like a non-alcoholic gin; a fresh, malty beer or a refreshing cider without the naughty hangover.
Another great way to thank someone for a message is to offer help in return. Why not give someone a gift card for groceries, gas, or food? My partner recently received an Uber Eats voucher as a token of appreciation. It was practical and useful while still allowing us to have fun.
In the end, I gave my electrician relative a grocery coupon, which he really appreciated.
You can also thank with an experience. It could be a ticket to a movie or an AFL game, or a restaurant voucher. It could be a Pilates session or an afternoon music lesson, all of which I received as a gift. If paying for a memorable experience fits your scale of appreciation, what a great way to nurture your relationships with others. It allows people to try something new or show them that you value their interests.
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Then there is food. Oh yeah. Food, great food. How can it go wrong? I found that the candied nuts and chocolate-orange buttons in gift baskets inspired more delight than the bottles of wine. Small, edible treats are a nice way to say thank you.
Finally, the old-fashioned “take someone out to dinner or coffee” gift. This allows you to talk to the person and not only give someone a product, but also your time, which is valuable in this fast-paced world.
What a miracle, time. We could all use a little more time in our lives. Especially when choosing a worthy gift.
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