It doesn't seem to be enough that we have to worry about social obligations, food and less than lovely relatives during this fabulous season, we have the dilemmas of gifting. 

Oh, and they are rampant.

There's lots you can do to be  a better gift giver, and getter.  Here's one simple thing that can save you a lot of angst:  Give everyone, including yourself, permission to be wrong.

That's it.  All you need to know.

Imagine if you gave your spouse permission to be wrong when he gifted you something horrific.  It really is the thought that counts, if the gift was bought with loving attention, can you really ask for more?  If it wasn't, well perhaps your problem is of a different nature.  Just sayin'. 

Imagine giving yourself permission to be wrong.  If you're simply wrong, the gift you slaved over and isn't appreciated, well, you tried.  Give the giftee permission to regift or return the item, then move on.  What more can you do than try?  You are not a mind reader.  Are you?

If you want to give yourself permission to be wrong, try this.  Give your gifts merrily.  Graciously let the giftee know that it's ok if you have made an error.  Be happy, be joyful, because you've tried.  And if you are on the receiving end of an unwelcome gift, remember the gift came from love and thank that person.  Take it home and let it sit for a few days before deciding the best course before letting the gift leave your life.  If the gifter asks the fate of the item they gave you?  Simply letting them know it didn't work for you so you were able to pass it on to someone who could really use it should suffice. 

Do you recognize what this is?  It's a step toward removing yourself from the emotional land mines of an over commercialized holiday. 

Now.  Isn't that better?

Number of organizing and gift giving rules I've broken this week:  Too many.  Today I'll be back on track.