| Spreading Joy Through Gifts |
| Articles - Lifestyle |
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Since time, gift giving has been a famous tradition. It is considered a very righteous and simple act of kindness. It is a means of personal expression of emotions towards interpersonal relationships. A symbolic connotation is attached to the act of giving. The particular item is not viewed as mere goods but have emotional associations. The effort made in selecting the gift item and the money spent may have positive or negative effects on relationships. Typically gifts are given without expecting anything in return but contextual variables affect the gesture in most cases.
Since time, gift giving has been a famous tradition. It is considered a very righteous and simple act of kindness. It is a means of personal expression of emotions towards interpersonal relationships. A symbolic connotation is attached to the act of giving. The particular item is not viewed as mere goods but have emotional associations. The effort made in selecting the gift item and the money spent may have positive or negative effects on relationships. Typically gifts are given without expecting anything in return but contextual variables affect the gesture in most cases. Gift giving is an expression which is sensitive to culture. In Asian countries especially China, the economic or monetary aspect of gift giving is very important. If someone has given you a present, you have to return the act of kindness by giving them a gift as well. Another thing which you have to keep in mind is that it is considered rude if you return a gift which is of lesser monetary value than the one you received. Giving more expensive gift is considered nobler and gives an upper hand over the relationship. Thus the implications of the gesture vary cross culturally. In western countries especially the United Kingdom, the gift giving behavior is different in personal and business environments. Chinese develop relationships before making business deals whereas British ease in after successive interactions. They mostly keep their personal and business lives separate. In England, people spend money on gifts that are of non-monetary nature. The thought counts more than the money value. The effort put in selecting the gift item and the feelings that the particular item displays are all equally important. With the increase in globalization and cross cultural integration, it has become very important to understand the gift giving behavior in different cultures. Our interactions with people of different countries and languages have increased and so has the need to understand the relative subjective values and customs. The symbolic meanings associated with gift giving and with each item is different is various cultures. Like giving flowers can be a normal friendly gesture in western cultures but may be viewed as a romantic act in many Asian cultures. Gift giving is a symbol of love and care and therefore is practiced very widely during the holiday season. People distribute presents to their loved ones on Christmas, Easter, birthdays and anniversaries. Religious implications of gift giving also vary in distinct cultures. As Christmas is the most popular and awaited holiday in Britain, gifts are generously given during this holiday. Especially it is the favorite time for kids who love to receive presents from their beloved Santa Claus. It is believed that if you be good all year than Santa will give you the best Christmas present. Gifts add to the fervor of Christmas and make one feel loved. So no matter which culture you belong to or what age you are, it is an act which will always spread happiness and joy. DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as information only and is not to be taken as financial advice. Buy amazing gifts Christmas presents and birthday gifts for your loved ones! Visit www.cocooncollection.co.uk now and spread the joy! |