The most thoughtful Christmas gifts you can give this holiday season.

In the UK, there have been news reports of individuals relying on food banks, and the economy appears to be stagnating at the moment. With Christmas around the corner, we need to give thoughtful gifts that reflect the times and the world we currently live in. Given the hardships many countries are currently experiencing, providing meaningful gifts should go beyond simply listing typical Christmas gifts like scented candles and flowers, among other items we often associate with the holiday.

If you're looking for a meaningful gift guide to give to someone this holiday season, continue reading.

Food basket. 

People are hungry. You see that friend or neighbor who keeps smiling like all is well—gift them a food basket. Forget the mugs and Christmas cards; buy a variety of food items, wrap them, and send it over. If you know where homeless people stay, you don’t always have to donate to a charity; you can buy a fruit basket or a basket with food items and go to the street to give it out.  I cannot tell you how appreciated it will be when you do that. Although the person may not express it outwardly, I assure you that people truly need food.

Last month, on David Oyedepo's birthday, the founder of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, he chose to give birthday gifts to all church members around the world. He distributed two packets of medium-packaged rice, a carton of indomie noodles, and frying oil to all church members worldwide. When the church presented me with these gifts, I already had them at home. When I used the ones gifted by the church after my own ran out, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for their generosity.

Massage and spa gift cards. 

The stress we have all experienced is beyond what words may express, so when considering a Primark or H&M gift card as a Christmas gift, keep in mind that a massage at the spa would be more helpful and beneficial to that person's well-being.

Fuel gift card.

My reason for adding fuel is that gasoline is one of the most scarce or expensive commodities in many countries. In countries such as Nigeria, the president is treating the economy as a personal asset, opting to refine crude abroad despite having local refineries, all to profit for himself and his family. This situation is common in various countries, leading to increasing fuel prices. Instead of purchasing a Christmas card for that friend with a car, consider giving them a fuel gift card. Alternatively, surprise them by taking them to a fuel station and covering the cost of their fuel as a thoughtful Christmas gift.

Pay a rent. 

Many families and individuals are experiencing difficulties in meeting their house rent or mortgage payments this year. Instead of buying expensive home equipment for Christmas, why not give them an envelope with the money? If you're looking to buy an iPhone, upgraded earpods, a laptop, or a gift to impress, keep in mind that they already own a phone. This money in cash will go a long way. They can use it for other needs besides rent.

Appreciation call.

Many people long for what I refer to as an appreciation call from friends, family, or loved ones, but they rarely receive it due to our tendency to overlook the efforts our close ones put into our lives. Call someone if you don't have a physical Christmas gift and tell them how much you appreciate them, how important their efforts have been in your life, and how they've helped you through giving, mental health, or other challenges. Let them know that you appreciate them, remember their beneficial works, and make them feel seen and honored. You never know who is fighting a silent battle, but you can give them hope that they are still adding value to lives and will continue to push forward. You can also mentally give Christmas gifts.

Preach the gospel. 

As a Christian, one of the best gifts I can give anyone around me is telling them about Jesus. Many of us tend to shy away from talking about our religion to our friends, even though we respect their privacy. However, some of us have never tried to preach to them. If they decline to listen, then that is fine. As a Christian, the Great Commission is part of the instructions Jesus gave to us, and I believe that after this life comes judgment. I want to meet my friends in heaven. Whatever you believe, and if you think it is the light, preaching to a friend might just lead them on the right path and change their lives forever. Remember, this costs nothing but your heart.

Travel ticket.

Many students have been abroad for the longest time, and, let me say, many people have been working abroad for a while, wishing they could spend the special moment of Christmas with their loved ones. However, due to financial constraints, they are unable to do so. Do you know a family member or friend who frequently mentions relatives who reside in a different country and wish to visit them? If you want to present them with a gift, consider giving them an open ticket to that country or location. One thing I have come to understand is that people tend to hide their struggles and just put on a cheerful face, especially in this social media era where appearance only counts for some people.

Personal care products.

To ensure survival, most people have reduced the quality of the products they purchase. Gifting personal care products, like quality creams, bath gels, and soaps in bulk, can cut down on cost. One thing I've noticed about personal care products in the UK is that they may appear inexpensive, but with the constant addition of cents at the end of every item cost, the final bill of these items is expensive.

Water purification filters or tablets.

I myself buy water a lot, so if someone gifts me packs of water, I will appreciate it more than a mug because I have mugs at home, spoon sets, plates, etc., that we always gift repeatedly. Water purification filters help filter tap water. There is no country with excellent tap water, so filtering the water is a way of staying healthy for those who cannot afford to buy drinking water every week or in bulk. Be practical when you want to give. Ask yourself how this gift will be impactful in this person's life. Until that gift comes from a place of care, not a ritual, you have not yet fulfilled a need.

Solar heater or fan.

The bills for heating are making my head spin. If you live in a cold country, consider a solar heater, and if you live in a hot country, consider a solar cooling fan as a wonderful gift. This is a game changer and will cut costs for the person or family. Giving your friends a Netflix gift card as a Christmas gift is thoughtful, but you know what's even better? A solar heater or cooling fan.

Warming blankets.

I appreciate their practicality and constant necessity. I use a heated blanket, and the warm feeling of lying on a heated bed when the weather is cold is so comforting. When you give this gift, you are not only cutting costs but also bringing warmth to someone. Before you start ordering personalized cards, check the price of heated blankets.

First aid kit.

Having a first aid kit can be beneficial, particularly in countries like America where medical bills are significantly high. Giving someone a first aid kit with a guide enables them to take the necessary steps when first aid is required. We don't pray for anything undesirable to happen, but believe me, this is a thoughtful gift.

Gym subscription.

You know how many friends and family members are becoming overweight and keep procrastinating about getting fit due to work or financial reasons. You can get them a gym membership to encourage them to start prioritizing fitness and taking their health more seriously. To make this gift even more impactful, consider pairing the gym subscription with the Transform Your Life in 12 Weeks: The 12 Weeks to a Better You' Program. This program can provide them with a structured plan and motivation to reach their fitness goals, helping them truly transform their lives over the course of three months.

Meal subcription.

Food subscriptions are now a thing. You can subscribe to lunch meals from services like HelloFresh and the likes and get fresh food items delivered to your doorstep. This is also a thoughtful gift. Forget the wine and get them a food subscription package.

Remember that if you have the ability to give more, don't hesitate; you can add one or two gift items to the above lists. Remember, “Give, and it shall be given unto you, good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over.

Being Santa Clause is a matter of being watchful and thoughtful with your gifts.

I want every piece of content on this blog to count. If it is not meaningful or adding to humanity, then I won’t share it. What are your views, and which gift from the list are you considering? And if you have any thoughtful suggestions, let me know in the comment section below.

Photo by Nicole Michalou