The end of the holiday season is quickly approaching. However, us men have nothing to fear. We still have some time to get all our shopping done, which should be all we need, right? Sure, as long as you don’t mind picking up the Christmas socks with the hole in them, perfume box that was run through a garbage disposal, and flower bouquet that says, Happy 40th.
Last minute holiday shopping is almost never a good idea. However, sometimes it happens, so here are a few tips to help you get by with the minimal of coal in your own stocking (well, at least I hope that was coal).
She Knows When You‘re Lying, So Don’t Bother– You can always say that a gift is on backorder, or you forgot to wrap it… However, all women know that this is code word for you forgot. If you find yourself at the moment of no return (sitting by the tree on Christmas morning, standing in line at the restaurant on Valentine’s Day) with nothing to show for it, all I can offer you is my condolences, and the following tips.
Be Extra Appreciative of Her Gifts– There is only one cure to a lopsided relationship, according to research, and that is the golden words, Thank you. Studies show that no matter how much one partner does for the other, while receiving little in return, as long as that partner responds with great appreciation, the other partner will (err, might) stay around awhile longer.
Be Extra Helpful Around the House– Studies also suggest that one of the greatest aphrodisiacs to women is a man at work. A man washing the dishes, rinsing the sink after shaving, dressing the turkey, or dressing the kids for church.
Money Won’t Buy You A Free Pass From Lack of Thoughtfulness- In today’s world, time is short where money is plentiful. This is not saying that we all have tons of money to waste, but that it is sometimes easier to cover a mistake with a fancy bandage, rather than a thoughtful idea. The problem is that most women can tell the difference between a gift from the heart and a gift from a price tag. If you have no idea what a woman wants, then…
Do Some Investigative Probing– Men are very simple creatures when we communicate our needs. One head nod usually means, “What’s up?” Two nods means, “I didn’t hear what you said, but I think so,” and three, “Yeah, that does sound good.” Men don’t have it so easy, because women rarely communicate that way. Instead, you are going to need to point out some perfume on the television, look inquisitive at the diamond earrings in a magazine, and get a feel for what she likes and doesn’t like. If you are sly, you can accomplish this in a couple minutes while on the phone.
Become a Man with a Plan– Spontaneity is becoming a dying art, simply because some (sensitive) men are too worried about giving the wrong gift. Do you know one of the biggest complaints of women after a first date? The fact that a guy had almost no plan, which is often because he was unsure of what she wanted to do. If you don’t have any clear ideas of a gift even after probing; get creative and just pick something out. As long as you have a clear reason in your head why she’ll like it, and the confidence to carry it off, all should go well.
What to Get?– This part is easier than it seems as most women like perfume, boyfriend watches, suede boots, cozy earmuffs, stylish bomber jackets, trench coats, and almost anything feminine that has the name Vera Wang on the label.
Good luck, as I have a feeling you’re going to need it.
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About Dr. Eric J. Leech
Eric has written for over a decade. Then one day he created Urbasm.com, a site for every guy.
About Dr. Eric J. Leech