Unwanted Christmas Presents

We all have this problem. Christmas day arrives and the opening present ceremony takes place. However, there's always that disappointment of receiving a present which you either don't like, want or need. It is usually made more awkward by the family member or friend watching you whilst you unwrap the gift which they obviously spent hours searching for. How do you respond?! "Thank you, that just what I wanted!": but that's lying. "Sorry but I don't feel the need to have a large multicoloured spotty jumper which blatantly doesn't fit me and I would never be seen dead in"; okay, so maybe that's a little harsh, but that's what goes on in your head, isn't it? It kills you inside to say it, but you are urged out of common courtesy to say thank you.

It is estimated that around £2.4 billion of Christmas presents are unwanted. It seems to be ridiculous that we waste so much money giving christmas presents to ungrateful people! The next problem you face is then to either cope with or dispose of the present in some way, shape or form.

1. You could just cope with the fact that this present isn't your kinda thing, but put up with it and be humiliated for wearing such terrible jumpers by your other friends. You may even go to the extent of wearing or showing use of the present infront of the person who bought it you in order to show that their work has paid off (although it really hasn't).

2. Attempt to take it back to the shop. If a receipt is provided with the present (this will only happen if the person who bought it is clever enough to realise that the present is not suitable for everyone), I would highly recommend taking the item back to the place of purchase, and hey, why not replace it with something more tasteful why you're there? However, if there is no receipt, this option is almost impossible, as most shops would believe you have stolen the item rather than being bought it out of no fault of your own. However, if the shop assistants are friendly enough, you may be able to exchange for something a little nicer!

3. You could try and dispose of it by giving it to another family member or friend. At least it will be put to use and there is no hassle in trying to get rid of it any other way.

4. Put it in what we call "The present box". I expect most families have one of these. A container or area full of unwanted presents to wrap up again and give to others for christmas or birthday - this is especially common in toiletries, because nobody REALLY wants them do they? It saves you having to buy a present for the person and from then on, it is their problem to get rid of it if its not their taste either!

5. EBay it! if you have an account and are familiar with the system, then eBay is the solution for you. Many people are willing to buy things, even if they are, in your opinion, the most tragic things you've seen. Beginners, never fear, the world is your oyster and who says you can't have a go? But beware; once you start eBaying, you never stop, so don't get too carried away.

6.  Give to a charity shop. Think about all those who didn't have such a wonderful christmas as you did; the least you could do is give the presents you weren't grateful enough to embrace to somebody who is kind enough to buy from a charity shop. it is charitable and good for the environment so new goods don't have to be produced for every single person!

7. Throw away. It is quick and easy, but also wasteful and it needs to be hidden in the bin if the present is from a family member who may see it! Something which I wouldn't highly recommend, but this option is always available as a last resort. 

Good luck and I hope some presents were more your taste! 

Alos, there is a poll related to this post and I would be grateful if you could take a vote. Thanks!(: