Each year, we all scramble to rack our brains for everything we could want for the holidays. All of your family members request a “finalized list” before Black Friday, and you’re expected to know exactly what you should ask for. Some people have their holiday wish lists done by October, while others’ minds go blank and they end up with a list that only includes socks. It’s hard to pinpoint exactly what you need and what you want.
Ever since I was able to circle my wishes in an American Girl Doll catalog with a Sharpie, I’ve known exactly what I wanted and had a list done by Nov. 1 each year. But this year, I hit a wall. I struggled finding items that felt like me and that I knew I would get good use out of. I spent hours scouring Pinterest and scrolling TikTok for inspiration, trying to conjure up the perfect gift ideas, but everything fell short. I didn’t want to make a list with things I didn’t truly want or need, so I followed these rules and ended up crafting the perfect holiday wish list.
1. Use an app
Leave the Canva slideshows and Google Docs behind and use an easier program like Giftful or Elfster. Giftful allows you to organize your list like a Pinterest board, laying out each wish to help you visualize each item. Elfster is another great option for digital list making, but it is also my go-to pick for all of my Secret Santa exchanges.
2. For seniors, don’t ask for dorm decor, ask for college essentials
As a senior myself, I’ve struggled with the urge to start designing my dorm room. My TikTok For You Page has been filled with dorm inspiration and college “must-haves” since the first day of school. I’ve had to remind myself that college is nine months away, and there’s a chance I won’t like the same rug and bed sheets I do now. So, my advice is, if you want to start prepping for college, opt for essentials if you’re able to. Invest in electronics, like an iPad or a laptop, good walking shoes, a warm winter coat, and items that won’t go out of style.
3. Ask yourself, “Will I like this in five years?”
Trends fade fast. Make sure your future self will still get use out of this item. Keep long-term value in mind instead of short-term desire.
4. Don’t disregard practical gifts
Sometimes it’s okay to get socks or a suitcase instead of a seventh Owala. Practical doesn’t have to mean boring if it is useful and necessary. By doing this, you’ll also save your future self money by not needing to buy it later.
5. Ask for outfits, not just clothes
Pick out pieces that will seamlessly fit into your closet. Buying a new sweatshirt? How many pairs of pants does it match? Plan ahead…unless you’re going for a statement piece, in that case, I will refer you back to rule three.
6. Ask for experiences
College visits, vacations, gift cards…your future self will thank you. These gifts won’t collect dust in your closet, so you won’t regret them.
7. Find items that can improve your daily life
Ask for car air fresheners, electric toothbrushes, a good hairbrush, pillowcases; items that will make your daily routine feel a little more put together.
8. Revise your list
Go ahead and make a giant list with everything you’ve ever seen on TikTok, but then, after a few days, revisit it and revise. If you aren’t 100% sure of a gift, skip it. Maybe you’ll want it more when you’re birthday rolls around…or maybe you’ll just realize you don’t need another sweatshirt.
If you’re unsure about what your heart truly desires, try to rewrite your list from memory. Anything you forgot from the original, consider crossing off. It might just be holiday greed, not a genuine need.
At the end of the day, your list should reflect you, not your For You Page. If you want to end this December satisfied, focus on adding things to your wish list that will increase the value, happiness and you in your life.
