Detailed gift lists improve couple gift-giving success

In a recent letter, a reader named "Made a Plan" shared her experience of improving gift-giving in her marriage. She previously felt frustrated because her husband struggled to choose gifts for occasions like Valentine’s Day. After 15 years together, she realized he lacked guidance on what to buy, when to shop, and how to select flowers. Instead of getting upset, she decided to help him by creating a detailed list of her favorite small gifts. This list included items like books, cosmetics, and clothing, along with specifics on colors and sizes. She also provided him with a "cheat sheet" for picking fresh flowers. Now, she reminds him to check the list before holidays, giving him a better chance to shop. When he does well, she celebrates his efforts, which he enjoys. Additionally, she helped him create his own wish list, making their gift-giving more enjoyable for both. She suggests that many people may not be naturally good at gift-giving and that humor and teamwork can make this process easier and more fun.