How we deal with gift-giving says a lot about us, our worldview, our generosity, our idea of reciprocity.
It's not a mere coincidence, then, that gift-giving is one of the five love languages theorized by Gary Chapman in the book 'The Five Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate' (1992), together with words of affirmation, acts of service, quality time, and physical touch.
[What goes through your mind
while receiving a present?
Are you happy? Thankful? Annoyed? Embarrassed?]
Still, I genuinely believe that how we deal with gift-receiving is just as important and revealing. How we react, what we think and do, and how we thank the person giving us a gift (if at all, and while truly meaning it) says a lot about us, our self-worth, our way of building and nurturing relationships, our ability (or incapacity) to feel gratitude, and sometimes also about our sense of entitlement.
"What's your typical reaction when receiving a present?"