LIFE

 

It's the last day of school before winter break—you've already handed out presents to your besties, turned in that English final project and spent the last period daydreaming of Christmas cookies...until Karli comes up with a big smile and an equally big gift bag. Which is great except you didn't get her anything. Oops. That's a sticky sitch to be in but if it happens to you, here's how you can deal.

Don't make up an excuse.
It might be tempting to say "Oh my gosh, I left your gift at home!" but lying is never a good idea. Anything but the truth will sound fake and made-up, and will hurt her more than the fact that you don't have anything for her. So zip those lips. 

Thank her (now and later).
There's no reason to feel bad—people shouldn't buy gifts with the expectation of getting something in return. Instead, they buy them because it makes them happy to see *you* happy. So make sure you express how much you truly love whatever she got you (just be sincere!). Then, mail her a handwritten thank you note when you get home for an extra appreciative gesture.

Always have extras.
If you're already standing there empy-handed, it's too late. But next year (or next week if there's still time), be prepared. Buy a couple of extra gifts that anyone could enjoy (think: pretty lotions or candles, delish gourmet snacks, etc.) and wrap them up. Then bring them with you and keep 'em in your locker. The next time you receive an unexpected gift, you'll have something nice to give in return!

Move on.
Sure, it's awkward. But at the end of the day, everyone has to choose who (and who they don't) get gifts for. You aren't expected to give something to *everyone* in your life, so don't beat yourself up. Instead, feel flattered that she thought so highly of you and make it a New Year's resolution to bond more with this girl. 

Have you ever dealt with this sitch before? Let us know how you handled it below!

by Amanda Tarlton | 12/6/2016