This year I celebrated my birthday with my kids and my mum and my daughter gave me an amazing gift - a pack of gum.
It cost less than two bucks but it brought me joy that she knows me so well to get a gift like that, and that it will bring me joy again and again (until it runs out).
She's 6 and gave a gift that I'll remember for years, for less than almost any gift I've ever received. That is, by definition a high return on investment.
When you think about gift giving, be it the gift of your time, energy, or money, be mindful of targeting the return on investment. It's not a cold hearted calculation. It works like this:
Creating joy is a better gift than reducing pain.
Practical gifts items only have value if they convey a deeper meaning (the gum).
Experiences from food to fun have a bigger impact than toys/tools/tech.
Stories have the best value. Does your gift have a story the receiver can tell?
I've just shared with you the story of my daughter's gift. In doing so I was able to appreciate it even more. When you give, and I hope you do this season, think of these things. It works for gifts in business too.
It cost less than two bucks but it brought me joy that she knows me so well to get a gift like that, and that it will bring me joy again and again (until it runs out).
She's 6 and gave a gift that I'll remember for years, for less than almost any gift I've ever received. That is, by definition a high return on investment.
When you think about gift giving, be it the gift of your time, energy, or money, be mindful of targeting the return on investment. It's not a cold hearted calculation. It works like this:
Creating joy is a better gift than reducing pain.
Practical gifts items only have value if they convey a deeper meaning (the gum).
Experiences from food to fun have a bigger impact than toys/tools/tech.
Stories have the best value. Does your gift have a story the receiver can tell?
I've just shared with you the story of my daughter's gift. In doing so I was able to appreciate it even more. When you give, and I hope you do this season, think of these things. It works for gifts in business too.