WE are now in the “ber” months and in typical holiday fashion, planning for holiday gift-giving is an ideal scenario we can get ourselves into to avoid any holiday rush of some sort.
So, planning ahead can transform a typically stressful holiday season into a more enjoyable experience. I know of people who are done with their holiday planning by the time September arrives; some as early as the first quarter of the year. By taking the time to organize gift ideas ahead of time, individuals and even organizations can avoid the last-minute rush that often leads to hasty decisions and buyer’s remorse. This proactive approach not only helps in selecting thoughtful gifts but also allows for a more budget-conscious strategy, ensuring that the holiday season is both joyful and financially manageable.
Digital gifting
Part of my childhood was receiving “aguinaldo” during the holidays — and that included receiving money in a sealed envelope with my name handwritten. Fast-forward to decades later and with the advancement of technology, this traditional aguinaldo has now been converted to gifting it online through the use of e-wallets and similar applications. In this sense, gifting digital products has become increasingly practical. Given that our lives have become intertwined with technology, digital gifts cater to modern needs while simplifying the shopping experience.
And we can choose digital gifts that also support local businesses and individual creators. This is particularly important as many small enterprises pivot to online offerings to respond to changing consumer behavior. By purchasing digital products, consumers contribute to the growth of local economies while also receiving unique and valuable gifts.
Here are a few ideas:
1. Digital courses. One of the most impactful digital gifts is an online course. Educational institutions and organizations that use learning management systems can leverage this by offering courses that cater to various interests and skill levels. These courses need not adhere to traditional formats; they can focus on practical skills like coding, graphic design or even personal development. Look for platforms that provide comprehensive training in productivity tools to enable learners to enhance their skills in areas such as project management and effective communication, for example. Consider those masterclasses that can be taken anytime to add to the convenience of the learner. Schools can view this as an additional revenue-generating stream while simultaneously benefiting those eager to learn continuously and acquire new skills in the process.
2. Digital subscriptions. Another excellent option is gifting subscriptions. The applications available online for subscription are abundant. These tools are designed to help individuals manage their busy lives more efficiently. Subscriptions to applications that focus on productivity provide users with the means to organize tasks and streamline workflow effectively. Other subscriptions include meals, milk, wine and other practical things that can be given as gifts within a fixed period (monthly, quarterly or annually).
3. Digital art. Personalized gifts are always a hit regardless of the season, and digital art takes this concept to new heights. Artists can create custom portraits or curated mini-museums that highlight a few personal favorites or interests in a scalable format. We once gifted mini museums during one of our technology events, and they were received very well by our key stakeholders.
Digital gift-giving has manifold benefits. From a sustainability perspective, digital products reduce waste associated with traditional gifting methods, such as packaging and shipping materials. This eco-friendly approach aligns with growing consumer preferences for sustainable practices.
Secondly, digital gifts can be delivered instantly, eliminating shipping delays and ensuring that last-minute shoppers still have meaningful options available. The scale is also enormous as you can easily send a digital gift to anyone in the world, making this thoughtful gesture not limited by boundaries. By purchasing from local creators or businesses offering digital goods, consumers help stimulate economic growth within their communities. In addition, many digital products allow for personalization, making gifts feel unique and tailored to the recipient’s tastes.
Finally, digital gifts often come at a lower price point compared to physical items, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious shoppers.
As the holiday season approaches, embracing planning for gift-giving becomes essential in reducing stress and enhancing enjoyment. The practicality of digital gifts not only simplifies shopping but also supports our local businesses and creators. From online courses that foster continuous learning to productivity subscriptions that enhance daily efficiency, digital products offer versatile options for thoughtful gifting. Businesses, organizations and individuals can ensure their holiday shopping is both meaningful and impactful by considering digital gifting along the way.
Kay Calpo Lugtu is the chief operating officer of Hungry Workhorse, a digital and culture transformation firm. Her advocacies include food innovation, nation-building and sustainability. The author may be reached at [email protected].
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