Gifts

The Psychology of Gift Giving

‘Happiness doesn’t result from what we get, but what we give’ ~ Ben Carson.

Rightly so! Most people love the mere act of giving. And if it’s for a loved one, nothing can beat the happiness that comes from within. Be it a birthday or an anniversary, the sheer joy of shopping for a gift, getting it packed, and giving it to the receiver is unmatched. Seeing their reaction whilst they open the gift is another delight. But why on earth does it make us so happy? As children, receiving gifts was the ultimate joy. But then you grow up and discover that the enjoyment of making someone happy is far more powerful than you could have anticipated.

Man is a social animal

Humans are fundamentally sociable and community-oriented as a species. We share a house, eat meals together, work together, and celebrate together. The act of looking after one another is a part of this socialization. Sharing is an indication of how humans are essentially generous, whether it’s food, happiness, information, or that beautiful new clothing. Remember Charles Darwin that you learned about in school? Well, the same guy said, “Communities, which included the greatest number of the most sympathetic members, would flourish best.” He’s not wrong though. It is true that our generosity is one of the reasons our species is still thriving. Mankind as a species would have been extinct already had we been fundamentally selfish and dismissed the very idea of sharing with each other.

Our brain loves the act of giving

Our brain loves the act of giving

According to neuroscientists, our brains are wired to enjoy giving. Studies illustrate that having more money can make you happier, but the effect is minimal. The way you spend your money can have a significant impact. According to research, spending more money on others rather than yourself makes us happier. Even those with lower income levels reported feeling happier when they spent more on others. We can sustain the pleasure of a new experience by giving to others. In psychology, this idea is known as Hedonic Adaptation, and it explains why it’s difficult to enjoy spending money on yourself indefinitely.

Contrastingly, the sight on the recipient’s face as they open their gift gives them a psychological boost and causes endorphins, the feel-good hormones, to be released into their brain, producing the same euphoric emotions of pleasure and delight we get after a hard workout or when we fall in love. Giving a gift activates the reward and pleasure centers in your brain as if you were the one receiving the gift. Oxytocin fills your system, reducing stress and making you feel closer to the receiver. A dose of oxytocin will make people feel more empathy for others. These signs and symptoms can linger for up to two hours. This is why most people who receive affection and love want to keep it going.

Secure relations equals happiness

A thoughtful and well-timed present, according to studies, can improve and develop a relationship with another person with Act of Giving. A meaningful gift between two people (yes, the thought counts) can be a non-verbal way for one person to show their thoughts and appreciation for the present’s recipient. Giving little gifts to our loved ones can convey our gratitude and deepen our connections. It’s a way of saying “thank you” for everything they’ve done for us. It is a wise strategy way to create and maintain a healthy relationship to take the time to tell someone that they are important. Social bonding creates a sense of belonging by bringing people together.

For example, let’s say you’ve had a really bad day at work, and your significant other surprises you with a candlelight dinner, some flowers from www.florista.ph , and soft music. This tiny act of kindness is likely to improve your spirits while also reassuring you that your significant other is unquestionably a keeper.

Disguising gifts as a form of help

Additionally, giving gifts need not always be about appreciation or love. It can also be about helping others in times of need. Maybe, a cousin is going through tough times at college because they cannot possibly afford a laptop, and you gift them one on their birthday. Your uncle has been complaining of back pain, and you surprise him with a costly massage machine that he was eyeing for ages. Your son just got turned down for a job so you cheer him up with some flowers that you bought at our store. The size of the gift is unimportant. It is the thoughtfulness of the gift that counts in the bargain. The fact that your gift made someone’s life easier brings unexplainable satisfaction to oneself. Nothing can compete with that.

At the end of the day, we are all trying to be happy and make other people happy. So, don’t be shy and definitely don’t overthink when it comes to Act of Giving. Spend wisely and gift thoughtfully. You can check out our blog section for more ideas on gifts. Even better, visit our website www.florista.ph to check our wide range of products to gift your loved ones. You surely won’t be disappointed. Go on and make someone’s day better (and your own too)! Happy shopping!

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