Have you made a Christmas list? When you run a business, Christmas gifts can start to shift towards practicality or even become completely intangible. For most of the small business owners I know, the list goes something like this:
- More sleep.
- Even more sleep.
- Snacks.
- Financial security.
- Gin.
Does that look familiar? Now, obviously, that list is only useful if you’re happy to drown in snacks and alcoholic beverages. Actually, now I write it down that doesn’t sound too bad. But what if your loved ones would like to get you something that will really help your business? I promise that business Christmas gifts don’t have to be boring. So, if you’re being asked for suggestions (or if you’re reading this looking for ideas for the business owner in your life), here are my top 5 ideas.
1. A Kindle
I resisted getting one of these for years, mainly because I love actual books. Then, when my husband suggested a Kindle for my birthday, I remembered how many times I’ve run out of books on holiday and been forced to browse the local charity shops or the selection on the hotel bookcase. Obviously, I jumped at the chance. In business, there is always something new to learn and loads of business books to teach you virtually anything. An e-reader is the perfect business Christmas gift because you can take it anywhere and learn on the go. There’s also the fact that no one can see the cover, so you could look completely professional on a train while reading the latest chick lit.
2. Stationery
Stationery addiction is real and occasionally necessary. I get through notebooks and pens at a ridiculous rate, so I tend to shop at the budget end of the market. (Or just go to expos and see how many you can get for free.) However, one of my favourite gifts was the beautiful (boxed) pen and pencil set that sits on my desk and gets used every day. It’s such a huge part of my working day that I had a small (OK big) panic when I mislaid the pen the other day.
It’s a small thing that makes life better. You could opt for lovely pens or a classic Moleskine notebook. You can even get fab digital notebooks if you prefer.
3. Some business support
No one can buy time, but if you’re struggling, you can buy help. If you want to work with a particular VA/graphic designer/writer but can’t afford it, you can drop some heavy hints. I’m happy to do vouchers if you want to send your loved ones in my direction, and I’m sure there are plenty of other business owners who will do the same.
4. Useful gadgets
When it comes to gadgets, the world is your lobster. They’re often the easiest business Christmas gifts to buy because they’re more in the realm of traditional presents. If you’re thinking of buying tech for a business owner, think about what they’ll actually use. Maybe they need a portable charger because their phone is always running out of juice. Perhaps a coffee maker will help them get going in the morning. If they work in cafes or a co-working space, a pair of noise-cancelling headphones could be just the ticket.
5. Time off
I started my business because I wanted to work flexibly around my children. In practice, this often means shoehorning everything in, or being unable to switch off at night because my brain is always ‘on’. Some business owners subscribe to the hustle culture, where you don’t take any time off until you’ve ‘made it. To me, that’s a recipe for burnout. If you feel as if you haven’t had a proper conversation with your partner recently, or if your interactions with your kids consist of homework and shouting, ask for a present that helps you to change that. A voucher for a meal, a family ticket for a day out, or even a couple of hours of free babysitting could all help.
What do you want to ask for this Christmas? Leave a comment and let me (or your family) know!
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