Regifting Etiquette: Give or Forget?

Regifting, the often controversial practice of giving a gift a second time after you've received it, can sometimes blur the lines of personal boundaries and social etiquette. Have you ever regifted a present to the person who gave it to you? I must confess that I have never knowingly done so, though, on occasion, I have caught myself in the act of regifting a gift because it wasn't quite my style or wasn't something I would personally use.

Regifting with Particularity

It's a delicate issue, especially when it comes to giving duplicates or items that aren't quite right for the recipient. Author Swaroopa mentions a friend who gave a duplicate book, DVD, or game, and even went as far as to keep detailed lists of what was given to whom and in what year. This is commendable for ensuring that the gifting doesn't repeat, but it can still be a challenge.

Think about it this way, if you're aware of receiving something that will likely find its way back to your gift-giver, it might be best to either return it or give it to someone else who might appreciate it more. However, in the realm of digital and social media, the likelihood of this happening is much lower, as physical items tend to have more personal significance.

Regifting during Special Events

For special events like weddings, birthdays, or holidays, gifts are often given with the understanding that there may be duplicate items. In these cases, Swaroopa wisely advises keeping a record of what has been given. This can help prevent the awkwardness of regifting an item that was already received.

But what happens when it's too late to make amends, as in the case of Swaroopa's ex-sister-in-law? Regifting can sometimes lead to misunderstandings and even mortification, as was the case for her ex-sister-in-law who regifted a present to Goodwill. While it shows a commendable act of philanthropy, it can still be seen as a form of regifting that isn't received kindly by the original giver.

Gifts with Personal Touch

Sometimes, gifts aren't items at all but rather words of encouragement or support. Swaroopa mentions receiving gifts that were only in the form of words, a supportive gesture that offered guidance to her receiver. Such gifts are invaluable and carry a different kind of weight.

It's important to remember that the value of a gift lies not only in the item itself but in the thought and effort that went into it. A well-chosen gift, whether it's a physical item or a heartfelt message, can make a significant impact on the recipient's life.

In conclusion, regifting can be a complex practice, but with thoughtful consideration and clear communication, it can often be managed respectfully. The key is to ensure that the gift is given as an act of kindness and support rather than one of inconvenience for the original giver.