If you’ve ever watched a sitcom, then you’ve more than likely witnessed numerous episodes dealing with a man getting this girlfriend, fiancée or wife a lame gift. As hilarious as it is to watch on television, the concept overall isn’t far from the truth. When Valentine’s Day, Christmas, birthdays or anniversaries come around, such occasions have the ability to make even the toughest of men quiver in their boots. However, the men of the world no longer have to fear their partner’s reaction to their gift…as long as they follow these tips.

Listen! Oh, how one word can transform a man’s life. Yes, one of the best ways to figure out what your special lady wants is to listen. Take time out to pay attention to what she’s saying when the two of you are out and about (does she gravitate towards a store to ooohh and ahhhh at a pair of shoes, handbag or outfit?). While you shouldn’t eavesdrop per se, when she’s on the phone with a girlfriend, mother or sister, tune in if you hear her mention something she’s always wanted or wanted to try (did she say she’d love to try that new day spa down the street that just opened up?).

Know her. A man could be with his woman for years and still be absolutely clueless as to what her likes and dislikes are. If you’re trying to come up with gift ideas for an occasion such as her birthday, brainstorm by thinking about the things she enjoys. Is she a great cook and loves to spend her time in the kitchen? Rummage through the cookware and find out if anything can be replaced. Buying a new mixer or a whole set of pots and pans to replace the old, worn out ones makes for a gift that is not only thoughtful but is practical and makes her life easier. When your gift relates to something in her life, it becomes that much more special.

Plan ahead. For goodness sake, birthdays, anniversaries and major holidays happen every year so there should be no excuse for you to procrastinate to the point where you’re scrounging for a gift at the last minute. For men that cannot help but to be late, make an effort to mark your calendar well in advance to serve as a reminder to purchase your gift. This is especially crucial if you want to do something big, such as planning a trip. Even if it’s just a quick overnight getaway, early birds not only get the best choices for accommodations (hotel, rental cars, plane tickets, etc.), it’s also more affordable. Women are always impressed by a man that can plan ahead.

When all else fails…ask. While most women want to receive a gift that is a surprise, there might come a time when all the tips in the world can’t help you find the perfect gift. Instead of faking sincerity by getting her something lame, simply ask her what she would like. But don’t make it a Q & A session. Take her hand, stare into her eyes and tell her that you’ve had a hard time finding the perfect gift and want to know what you can do to make her day special. Ask her if there is anywhere she wants to go for dinner or if there is a place she’d love to visit for the weekend. While she might be disappointed at first, the fact that you want to make it up to her will still make you a winner in the end.  

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