Imagine receiving a book with a message on the back that says: There’s so much that’s great about you. So much that’s worth treasuring. That’s exactly what is printed on a book called You Are Amazing from Summersdale Publishers, and it was hugely uplifting to receive it.
The rest of the text reads: This little book of quotes is full of words of gratitude and appreciation that will make you recognise and remember that. You are amazing.
I adore thoughtful gifts that make you feel good about yourself, and better about the world. This book is a great example. It’s small, inexpensive, and has a bight, sunshine yellow cover. But the message it delivers makes it worth so much more.
A little book of quotes
The book is exactly what it says it is – a little book of quotes. It’s perfect to flick through when you need a little boost, or help you feel positive and motivated.
There are quotes from Nelson Mandela, Oprah Winfrey, Desmond Tutu, Kurt Cobain, Lady Gaga, and Michelle Obama. Some of my favourites include:
- Self-love is the source of all other loves. ~ Pierre Corneille
- I am not what happened to me. I am what I choose to be. ~ Carl Jung
- We need to do a better job of putting ourselves higher on our own to-do list. ~ Michelle Obama
- Invent your world. Surround yourself with people, colour, sounds, and work that nourish you. ~ Susan Ariel Rainbow Kennedy
- You’re always with yourself, so you might as well enjoy the company. ~ Diane von Furstenberg.
Thoughtful gifts can be profoundly uplifting
For those of us who are sensitive and tend to over-think things, thoughtful gifts like this can be profoundly uplifting. They act as small, affirming reminders encouraging us to see our strengths and recognise our worth.
Thoughtful gifts also have a unique power to connect people on a deeper level, often communicating sentiments that go beyond words.
Unlike generic presents, a thoughtful gift shows the giver’s awareness of the recipient’s personality, interests, or needs, making the gesture feel deeply personal and meaningful.
Thoughtful gifts can also reinforce self-worth and confidence, as they often remind the recipient of their positive qualities or bring comfort during difficult times.
Examples of Thoughtful Gifts
Thoughtful gifts don’t need to be elaborate or expensive. It could be a handwritten letter expressing your appreciation, or a handmade item that reflects shared memories.
Others ideas include a self-care kit personalised to the individual, jewellery engraved with a special message, a monthly magazine or book subscription, a voucher for a course, or a carefully-selected book or journal from an organisation like The School of Life.
Experience-based gifts, like concert tickets, afternoon tea, a spa session, or a cooking class, are also meaningful because they create memories to share together.
A book with inspiring messages, a digital picture frame preloaded with meaningful photos, a photo cushion or calendar, a memory jar filled with encouraging notes, or a curated scrapbook of photographs, all offer something invaluable.
They show empathy, understanding, and care. They can also be opportunity to relive happy moments, celebrate shared experiences, and spark conversations about treasured memories. They can also communicate love, support, and understanding in a way words often can’t.
The Self-care kit
My favourite thoughtful gift was a self-care kit sent to me when I was going through a very difficult time. In included a box of Happi Cards – a mix of affirmations, inspiration and motivational message printed on cards – cosy socks, chocolate, a candle, and a notebook.
The fact that someone had taken the time to choose a gift that was exactly right for me at the time meant everything. They had put genuine care into selecting something meaningful. The gift also communicated the messaged that I was valued and deserving of care.
The Spirit of Giving
At its core, gift-giving is about connection, empathy, and appreciation. Thoughtful gifts embody the true spirit of giving, which is about making someone else feel seen, appreciated, and valued.
When we take the time to consider what will genuinely touch someone, we move beyond the transactional nature of gift-giving to create moments of joy and gratitude. This simple yet powerful gesture has the ability to transform both the giver and the receiver, reinforcing the bonds that bring us together.
In a world that often values convenience and speed, taking the time to choose a thoughtful gift stands out as an act of love and intention. It’s a meaningful way to remind others – and ourselves – of the power of connection, empathy, and shared experiences.
Thoughtful gifts can strengthen bonds and serve as lasting reminders of the connection between the giver and the receiver, fostering a sense of appreciation and belonging that endures long after the gift is given.
