What Do I Want for Christmas?

Christmas is always seemingly right around the corner, even if it seems like it was just celebrated.

It is so much easier to buy gifts for other people, but these same people may want to know what to get you for Christmas. “What do I want for Christmas,” you ask yourself.

In the season of giving, it is no surprise that it is difficult to think of things you would like to receive.

Maybe you truly don’t want anything, or perhaps there was something a few months ago that you thought would be nice to have. Drat! You forgot to write it down.

The above scenario probably sounds all too familiar, but that’s okay because we are going to work on that. It is so important to start making a list when you begin asking, “What do I want for Christmas?”

Generally, I recommend making a want/need/wear/read list, but that’s so boring! While it is good to keep those things in mind when making your wish list, let’s twist the categories a bit to make things interesting:

• Edibles you like: Chocoholics, Foodies; I’m looking at you. You probably have that favorite gourmet food or candy store around the corner. It never hurts to list specific food items you crave, or even request a gift certificate.

• Guilty pleasures: We all have them. Maybe it’s comic books or that TV show Jersey Shore. Whatever your guilty pleasure is, if it’s secret, proceed with caution when listing these things. Mine's simple: scented jar candles, hint hint.

• Luxuries you wouldn’t buy for yourself: Items such as jewelry, cell phones, tablets and other electronics would typically fall under this category. Anything that is expensive that you would prefer not to buy for yourself should go here.

• All things practical: Basically, this is for items that you would find useful in your day-to-day routine, whether it is a nice, warm heater blanket for that chilly winter or a nice set of coffee mugs.

• Hobby supplies: We all have a hobby whether it is artistic or athletic. Asking for things that relate to your hobby will help save you some money in the long run. Don’t be afraid to list the “better brand” items.

• Clothing at that one store: That one store. You know, that one that you most likely go in but only shop off the clearance rack because it’s really just out of your price range? That sweater in the window looks really nice...

• Good reads: Maybe the subscription to your favorite magazine is about to run out or you want that new book series on the Kindle, include these items on your wish list so there are no grey areas when it comes to reading material!

• Furry friends: If you have really been wanting a puppy or hamster, now is a golden opportunity for someone else to buy it for you. Don’t forget to list all the supplies needed to care for that cute, little ball of fur!

Now that you have some ideas about what you might want for Christmas, you need to move onto making your Christmas wish list.

There are a few things you should consider when planning your wish list. Here are a few more wish list tips to help you along:

• Choose “audience” carefully: Keep in mind that some things are highly inappropriate to ask of certain people. For example, you wouldn’t want to hand your church’s pastor a list that includes those 4 for $25 lace panties.

• Listen to what others ask you: They may be casually asking you what your favorite stores or restaurants are, and this could be them poking around for ideas. Drop a few hints to help them out.

• Want something really expensive? That’s okay, see if a few family members would be willing to go in on the cost, or even ask for cash to help. Maybe you’ll get lucky and receive too much cash. Is there really such a thing as too much cash?

• Include things in each price range: Yes, it is okay to add something really expensive, but make sure you include items at a variety of prices, so there's something for everyone's Christmas shopping budget.

• Avoid things you buy yourself often: Why? There are actually a few reasons why: 1, you already know what you like, so if someone gives you the wrong kind, you'll be disappointed, and 2, it's more fun to surprise someone with something special. Who wants toilet paper or kitty litter for Christmas?

Don’t feel guilty making a long list of things you want, and keeping it throughout the year.

Not only will it come in handy during Christmas time, but for your birthday and anniversaries as well!

And it'll help family know exactly what to purchase for you, or not purchase for you! (Watch the video to know what I mean!)

Follow all of the tips above so you can find yourself spending less time asking “what do I want for Christmas” and more time asking “what do you want for Christmas?”

Happy shopping and Merry Christmas!