If you've ever participated in Secret Santa you know the sheer horror of the seasonal game. It brings coworkers, friends, teammates, family, etc. closer together... in theory. I say we lose this old-fashioned game because it really is the worst way to get people gifts.
1. Not listing ideas
When you write the names down have everyone entered write two or three things they particularly like or enjoy to make it a little easier on everyone. It makes it easier to get a gift for someone you don't know that well if that situation occurs.
2. Picking the names
There is no good way to pick names for Secret Santa. If you all grab names at the same time someone will end up with themselves and you'll have to start over. If you pick one at a time the last person to choose only has one name to pick.
3. Not having a minimum budget
I know no one wants to go all out on these gifts (unless they get someone they really like) but you can't spend little to nothing on the gifts.You have to spend more than a dollar on this game or it doesn't really work.
4. Not having a maximum
Favoritism at its finest. Someone spends way more money on someone else and that's just not fair. If you'd like to get your very best friend the most expensive gift do it on your own terms, not in front of everyone.
5. Unfair gifts
Even if there is a set minimum and maximum price someone always gets a lower quality gift. Getting socks? Not fun. Next time try a little harder to pick something out that you'd enjoy receiving.
6. Shopping during the holidays
Do I need to say more? While Black Friday deals can be a steal are they really worth diving through frenzied crowds? Don't shop too close to Christmas or you'll find yourself waiting in lines forever. Shopping during the holidays is just awful.
7. Getting a gag gift
No one, I repeat no one wants a gag gift. Unless this is agreed on by the group, it would be wise not to give someone granny panties or condoms for their seasonal cheer.
8. It's the same old game
We always keep things the same. Everyone buys a gift for their person. Why not try another variation? Perhaps stealing secret Santa or casino secret Santa. In these versions, there's a little more of a game to be played. You can steal gifts from one another or even go in for the jackpot!
9. It's not a secret for long
People talk. Whether this is a workplace environment, between a group of friends, or even a sports team your secrets will get spilled like the beans. It's human nature to communicate!
10. Getting someone you don't like
What's worse: spending money on a gift for a stranger or spending that money on your least favorite stranger? Giving a gift to someone you aren't fond of just spoils all the fun of this game.
