What makes a bad gift?
Short answerAny gift that implies the recipient needs to change, creates obligation, reflects your taste rather than theirs, or requires effort from them to use.
Bad gifts share a small set of features. If your gift falls into any of these, reconsider before wrapping.
Implies the recipient needs to change. Diet books, fitness equipment for a non-fitness person, self-help books, productivity systems, anti-snoring devices, weight loss supplements. Even if asked for, these come loaded.
Creates obligation. A puppy. A houseplant for someone who travels. A hobby kit (woodworking, knitting, sourdough starter) for someone who hasn't expressed interest. Anything that requires the recipient to take on a project to make the gift make sense.
Is obviously generic. A petrol station bouquet. A boxed gift set from the supermarket. Anything still in its 'gift' display packaging that signals you grabbed it on the way over.
Reflects your taste, not theirs. A jazz vinyl for someone who only listens to pop. A piece of wall art in your aesthetic for their home. A hot sauce kit for someone who hates spice.
Requires effort to use. Board games that need other people. Tools for hobbies they don't have. Equipment with a steep learning curve. Subscriptions to services they have to set up themselves.
The single test: 'Will this make their life better, easier, more enjoyable, or more memorable — without them having to do anything?' If the answer isn't a clear yes, change the gift.