I figure it’s about 50-50 for me. People buy some ridiculous things as gifts, mostly out of desperation to buy something.
These come in several categories:
- WTF: the giver is clueless or even malicious
- Other people’s aspirations: gifts they think will make you a different, “better”, person
- Meh: no explanation necessary
- Hmm: seems like a good idea, just not for you
Near 0% regifted or discarded.
Family does a Secret Santa and everyone posts a wishlist. I get items from my wishlist, no issues.
My friends and I only gift things to each other like homemade food/drinks, handmade stuff, or experiences. If it’s a thing I can’t eat/drink, I thank them, let them know, and take it to work to be devoured by someone. No issues.
SO is a competent gift giver, and we mutually agreed to a <$100 spend, so it’s low stakes.