One way to give someone else a gift, is to let them give a gift to you.
Don’t let that be the only way that you give other people a gift, because that would mean you are a taker, possibly a bit of a jerk, but accepting a gift well is an underrated skill.
How do you respond when someone gives you a gift?
“You shouldn’t have”
“You spent too much”
“That wasn’t necessary”
“But I didn’t get you anything”
Here’s a reminder: You are allowed to be on the receiving end of an act of generosity. It’s okay if someone gives you something nice. Some people are wired to express their love and gratitude more through giving gifts.
If you refuse it, you are getting in the way of someone else having the joy of giving. If you don’t receive it well then it can tarnish the whole experience for everyone.
The only thing to say when you receive a gift is “thank you”.
If you must, you can add “you are very kind”, or “I love it”. That’s it.
By just accepting it graciously, you are ensuring that generosity is going both ways.
I must add that the above does not apply if someone is trying to manipulate or coerce you through giving gifts. That’s downright shady behaviour and you have every right to refuse that. Forcefully if necessary.
The Generosity Guy 