When it comes to buying gifts for men, the process may seem straightforward — pick up a leather wallet, a metal watch, or a bottle of “manly” perfume and call it a day. However, the reality is far from simple. Despite the common belief that gifting men is easy, many end up with items they neither desire nor use.
The traditional go-to gifts for men include watches, perfumes, and shoes, but perhaps it’s time to rethink these choices. To gain insight into what men truly want as gifts, we reached out to a few individuals. Their responses ranged from humorous to practical, shedding light on their preferences and frustrations.
Zareef, a part-time cartoonist, humorously admitted, “I often receive gifts that are of no use to me, like fancy mugs or flashy ties. I already own seven fancy mugs collecting dust and a yellow tie that is a fashion disaster.” He emphasized the importance of practicality over frivolous items.
Sirajis, a 35-year-old professor, expressed a desire for a unique gift — having someone pay his electricity bill for a month. While unconventional, his request reflects the everyday struggles faced by many individuals in managing expenses.
On the other hand, some men, like Imran, a marketing executive, prefer the simplicity of receiving money instead of potentially disappointing gifts. He highlighted the practicality of allowing individuals to choose what they truly need.
Hasan, a writer and journalist, shared a relatable experience of being taken shopping by his wife for gifts he may not necessarily appreciate. In contrast, he expressed a longing for a gift that prioritizes relaxation and personal time.
Imtiaz, as the family provider, expressed a desire for thoughtful gestures that acknowledge his suppressed desires. He emphasized the significance of being recognized for his sacrifices and responsibilities.
Farhan humorously suggested that his ideal gift would be a boys’ trip with his school friends, emphasizing the value of shared experiences and camaraderie over material possessions.
Contrary to stereotypes, some men, like university student Ratul, appreciate thoughtful gestures such as receiving flowers, indicating that men also enjoy being remembered and appreciated.
The underlying message is clear — men value thoughtfulness and understanding in gifts more than material items. From small indulgences to moments of relaxation, the best gifts for men are those that convey a sense of recognition and appreciation. Ultimately, it’s not about extravagant surprises but rather gestures that make their lives easier and demonstrate genuine care and understanding.