The Gift of Giving

flaxenink
3 min readOct 10, 2022
A Gift Box

Well, it has been awhile since I wrote anything about design. So much happens in the process of learning and getting a new job — holidays are just around the corner! But before we all go shopping for gifts (or maybe even some last minute presents), let me share with you my top five tips on how to ensure your wish list is successful this year:

1. Be specific when asking someone what they want, because otherwise hints might get confused people, like “I know somebody who would love this.”

2. Don’t forget that there will probably always be something available at garage sales or deep discount stores if nothing else works out well.

3. You can donate to a charity they might like.

Designers are always looking for new things to inspire them. So when you try finding a gift for one of your designer friends this year, don’t just go out and buy anything. What would be cool if you got together with him/her over dinner at an amazing restaurant or for a hike outdoors?
What better way to spend your hard-earned money than on something you’ll use and enjoy with the people who mean most in this world? I know designers who love reading books about design, others enjoy traveling abroad. So what do they want for their next gift: movie tickets or an evening at home watching TV (or playing video games)? One idea is getting them some family time by going out together, instead of paying expensive bills inside, where it’s cozy but not fun anymore due to high living costs today. Another could be golfing — everyone can agree prices are rising, so we need innovative solutions fast!

What do you get for the teacher always there when we need them? Some say giving a gift is an easy thing, but it can also be difficult. Do I get them an Amazon card? Something for their classroom, no and no. And so next time your child has an event or appointment where they’ll need some extra attention from adults in his life — just like these teachers deserve — give him (or her) this thoughtful present instead; he’ll love seeing how much effort went into finding something unique just for them.

As designers, we always strive to improve our skills and share the knowledge that has come from years in this industry. Sometimes it is difficult when you are alone, but there are so many opportunities for growth! If someone who wants advice on how to improve themselves as a designer needs help finding their footing or just starting out, then perhaps what I have learned will provide them with an invaluable service — after all, it is only natural for me to want others to succeed, as I have done back in the first place.

You can’t go wrong with a smile! When you want to make someone happy, the best thing to do is listen and give them some attention. We all need somebody in our lives who values us for who we are; even if they don’t show their appreciation everyday, like this one time, may be enough. Because of how special these moments are when shared between two people connected by something much deeper than words could ever describe, give a gift to someone who needs a pick me up.

Believe accessibility is everything!
💻 My e-Pubs/Audio: https://terrirodriguezhong.com/shop
🎤 Ramblings of a Designer: https://roads.libsyn.com

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