“Angry dear, do you have any idea what you would like for Christmas?”

This is a question I get asked, every year, by members of my family. We are not a particularly creative group, so if you don’t ask for something specific, the chances are you’ll get a Book, or a Christmas Jumper. Or both if they are feeling unusually generous.

“How much do you want to spend?” I asked in return.

This question often causes some consternation, but I do not understand why. I work in an environment where if people want to buy something, one of the first things you must do is find out how much they have to spend. It is good business practise, it expedites a swift conclusion the transaction and ensures both parties are clear on where this commercial relationship is going.

I see no reason why this shouldn’t be applied to your personal life.

“I’m not telling you that!”

“In that case I want one of the following, a Bose sound-dock for my iPod, a new Sony Vaio laptop, or a new BMW 3 Series Coupé. Your choice”

“You’re just being silly now.”

No, actually. I am being realistic. What is the point of me naming a present that costs ten pounds if you were planning on spending £30 on me? I am doing myself out of £20 worth of potential gifts. That is being silly.

The same principle works in reverse. Just before I go Christmas shopping after lunch on Christmas Eve to buy my families Christmas presents, I call each of them in turn.

“What do you want for Christmas? I am in HMV, and have £15 with your name on it. You have 20 seconds or you get vouchers.”

If focusses the mind, and takes much of the stress out of Christmas shopping. You should all try it.

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