Should you feel obligated to give a gift to everyone you receive one from?

Generally it is a courteous gesture to return a gift to a person who has presented you with one to show your thoughtfulness and appreciation of that person. However, do so only if you can truly afford to purchase multiple gifts for others. You may have a number of friends, each of whom may only have to give out one or two presents (one of which is to you), which makes you feel obligated to give them a present back.

However, you are the one who would have to find multiple gifts to keep your friends happy. True, some people may talk about or look at you in a negative light if you do not return a gift after they feel they have put lots of thought and effort into buying you one, but are those individuals true friends? Isn’t the mere act of giving simply a gesture of gratitude meant to bring unconditional enjoyment to the recipient?

Do you simply give a present in order to receive one in return or to make the recipient happy? Things to think about. If you are unsure how many of your friends may go all out this Christmas and give you presents, or if you are expecting a number of presents that you know you may not be able to return in terms of quantity, you should talk to your friends ahead of time and come to a certain agreement in regards to presents that everyone can live with.Do you think money will be tight this Christmas and you won’t be able to afford any presents for your friends?

Maybe you could suggest that you guys skip the gift exchange this Christmas. Or maybe each person could only buy a present within a set price range (under $15 or $10). That way if one of your friends decides to shop outside this price range, that would be totally his/her decision.

Whatever you decide, remember, it is not the presents that define a friendship, but rather the intimacy, understanding, and shared joy of close relationships you have with your friends.

I don't believe you should feel as if you have to give them a gift. It may be a nice gesture, but not necessary.

As a young girl I was taught that you give a gift out of love not obligation. It is okay to simply say Thank you, or Thank you, what a nice gesture and move on. Some people simply have extra cash flow and enjoy gifting.

However, if the gift-giver is trying to influence you in someway, (say perhaps an ex who wants to return) then consider carefully before accepting the gift. You always have the right to refuse a gift too.

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