Give the Best Gifts this Holiday Season

With the holiday season upon us, we are all making our lists and checking them twice.  But before you start stressing out about your shopping list  bear in mind that studies show that spending more money on a gift doesn't automatically mean the recipient  will appreciate your gift more.  So save your money and focus on more practical gifts that will be enjoyed.

Just in case you get a stinker of a gift remember  re-gifting isn't so taboo anymore, if you receive a gift that just isn't "you" simply give it to a friend you know would love it! Just be sure to be honest to avoid any awkward situations with family and friends.

And finally when in doubt just get the people on your list what they asked for!  The old adage of "it's the thought that counts" only really works if your under the age of 10. The journal of Experimental Psychology says that "thoughtful" gifts tend to make the giver feel closer to the recipient and not the other way around, like commonly believed. So this holiday season, give the people on your shopping list exactly what they want, and if you don't get what you want feel free to pass it on!

[caption id="attachment_8184" align="alignleft" width="262" caption="Will Your Gifts Make the Cut This Year? "][/caption]

To be a really successful giver of gifts, a person usually needs to get inside the head of the intended recipient. Unfortunately, psychological studies reveal that givers and receivers have a hard time understanding each other's mind-sets, which can make for a tricky holiday experience.

Enjoy other financial and physical wellness tips from The Wall Street Journal