In my experience in working with couples, husbands can have a tough time picking out the right holiday gifts. So in the spirit of Christmas cheer, here are 7 laws of gift giving for husbands.

The Law of Black and Decker

Unless you have an express written request in writing clearly stating otherwise, never buy your wife a Christmas present containing the label Black and Decker.

The Law of Practicality

Practicality is a good thing. Just not at this time of year and definitely not the only gift. And pleading "Honey, I thought you needed a blender!" just will not cut it.

The Law of the Message

Consider the message you could be sending with your gift. One of the first gifts I ever got my ex-wife was a membership to the gym to which I belonged. I thought it would be fun and we could spend more time together. That is not the message she got.

The Law of You

Do not get something that you really want disguised as a gift for her. She will know.

The Law of Paying Attention

This is the first way to know what to get her for Christmas. Pay attention to what she notices, what she talks about, and what she wishes for, because these are great clues that can make you look real good on Christmas morning.

The Law of Asking

Here is another way to know what to get her: ask. And never, under any circumstances, even if you have it in writing, believe it if she says "Oh, you don't have to get me anything."

The Law of the Last Minute

Do not wait until the last minute to get the gifts. For some reason, this invalidates the gift in the mind and heart of your wife. How will she know it was a last minute gift?

They just know.

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