Psychologist Cardiakos gave advice on dealing with unnecessary gifts

Anastasia Cardiakos, a family psychologist and psychotherapist, explained how to politely respond to a gift that she didn't like and what to do with it next.

In an interview with Radio 1, she noted that at the time of the presentation, it is important to remember that it is not the thing that is valued, but the attention. The psychologist advises you to focus on the giver, thank him for the care and interest shown when choosing a gift, and ask a clarifying question — this way the focus shifts from evaluating the subject to the efforts of the person. At the same time, she recommends avoiding phrases that may sound like depreciation, for example, that "a person did not need to spend money."

Cardiakos noted that mild disappointment is normal, but criticism should be postponed. In her opinion, it is not necessary to store an unnecessary thing for years: a person has the right to "redirect" the received energy of attention to where it will bring joy. It is acceptable to give a gift if it was not too personal, high-quality, suitable for another person and enough time has passed. It is important to completely change the recipient's circle, remove all traces of the previous donation and present the item with sincere warmth.

The psychologist also reminded that unnecessary gifts can be exchanged or returned by check, given to charity or saved for future occasions. She stressed that an unsuccessful gift does not always indicate inattention — sometimes this is how a person expresses love through something significant to him — and advised allowing himself and others to be imperfect.

Earlier on December 25, a study showed the main reasons for Russians' anxiety when choosing New Year's gifts. So, 31% of respondents are afraid to make a mistake with the size of jewelry.

On December 24, Psychologist Marina Krapivnaya recommended arranging gifts for the New Year in advance. According to RT, surprises are good only when there is an exact certainty that a person will like him. The specialist also warned about "gifts for show", which are presented formally, without real care. Such gifts can devalue both the giver and the relationship, clarifies 360.ru .

On December 23, psychologists told us how to avoid family conflicts at the festive table. Disagreements often arise due to accumulated stress. The Moscow 24 article clarifies that it is better to avoid talking about politics, finances and overly personal issues. Another way to avoid quarrels is not to spend all the holidays at home.

On December 5, Candidate of Psychological Sciences Mikhail Horse told NSN how to play "Secret Santa" and not offend anyone. According to him, a person always gets upset not because he was given an unwanted gift, but because he himself fantasized about what he needed to give. He advised giving any gifts and not thinking that anyone would be upset, because Santa Claus is "secret" anyway.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.