Queue that infamous Mariah Carey note— “It’s tiiiiime!” Officially Christmas time, that is. Which also means it’s time to figure out what gifts to get your friends. If you’re anything like me, gift-giving is a stress-inducing activity, especially when it comes to my friends who prefer their alone time. What would they really appreciate? The options are somehow endless yet limited at the same time. You’re in luck, though, because I’ve crafted a list of the perfect items your homebody friends will definitely love.
Read on to find out the top 10 gifts to get your introverted friends:
1. A Book
I don’t know about you, but when I think about my reserved friends, I imagine them curled up in their comfort space— most likely their room or apartment. What compliments a cozy day indoors better than a good book? Even if your friend isn’t a big reader, there’s no denying the magic of entering a new world through words on a page. I recommend finding a book or novel that’s tailored to your friend’s interests, that way they’ll be that much more excited to read it. A classic one you can give them is “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho, but the choice is completely yours— only you know your friend best!
2. A Candle
One additional item comes to mind when I envision my friends holed up with their new favorite book— a scented, decorative candle. The options here are truly endless, providing you the perfect opportunity to really contemplate what scent has your friend’s name written all over it. With the myriad of holiday-themed candles stocked on store shelves, you’ll surely find a wide selection, varying from sugar cookies to sparkling cinnamon. (Personally, I’d choose sugar cookies all day). Perhaps this candle will even help them set the warm ambiance for a study session.
3. A Puzzle
Maybe your introverted friend isn’t a big reader. “It’s boring,” they might whine. I’ve definitely heard that one before. Not to worry! You can present your stay-at-home friend with another alternative that’ll get their mind flowing— a puzzle. A common theme we’re seeing, it seems that we are seeing is the wonderful diversity available for each of these gifts. From cartoon-themed dog puzzles for your animal-loving friend to realistic nature puzzles for your green-thumbed friend, I guarantee there is a puzzle out there for everyone.
4. Paint Supplies
Perhaps your friend is really into painting or wants to get into it, anyhow. Unfortunately, paint supplies can get so pricey that it’s hard to justify purchasing them when their budget might be tight. This Christmas, you can help support your friend’s creativity by buying some of these supplies for them. If your friend is a beginner painter, consider giving them this beginner’s kit for just about $26. And if your friend is more advanced, you can look into more specific tools and brands they might enjoy.
5. A Journal
What with all that time spent in their own company, your withdrawn bestie likely has tons of thoughts swirling about their head. Why not provide them with a physical outlet for those thoughts? A journal makes an ideal gift for your friend who prefers their alone time. Whether they write about gratitude, self-reflection, or (my personal favorite) existential dread, I promise your friend will appreciate this gift. We would all do better to put our thoughts onto paper sometimes, so be sure to keep this gift idea in mind.
6. A Mug
As the weather gets colder and colder as Christmas approaches, your reticent friend will surely be enjoying some hot winter drinks. Present them with a quality mug this year so they think of you whenever they feel warm and cozy from that steaming chai latte! The great thing about mugs is their versatility. For those of your (frankly, insane) friends who don’t love coffee, the mug can be used for tea, cocoa, and more. If you need inspiration, check out the mug shown above which changes colors and pictures depending on the temperature!
7. A Snuggie
I might get some hate for this once since it’s a bit outdated. My response: tell me the Snuggie doesn’t look like the coziest thing one could wear in your home this holiday season. Perfect for when your friend is reading a book, making a puzzle, painting or playing video games (slight foreshadow). And because the original Snuggie has been well-known for some years now, there are a wide variety of colors and styles to choose from. Help keep your bestie warm and comfortable with this wearable blanket.
8. A Video Game
As I so subtly hinted at, the next gift on this list of ideas for your friend who’s a big homebody is a video game. Maybe your friend has the whole set-up, like a PS5, Xbox or Switch. In this case, there are a myriad of games to choose from, like NBA2K24, if your friend is into sports. Another option, if you’re like me, is any Mario Brothers-related game. No matter what your friend is interested in, there is definitely a game out there that’s suited perfectly for them.
9. Headphones
We all have those moments where we want the world to shut up. For your quieter friends, this feeling might arise more frequently. It’s not that they don’t like people or want to socialize at all, but sometimes they just need a break. Headphones make the perfect escape. Whether they’re studying, walking to class or just hanging out at home, I can guarantee (as a fellow introvert) that this gift will be unmatched.
10. Baking Supplies
Last but not least, let’s end this list with another holiday-related gift item. As stress from finals slowly comes to an end, I can think of few better ways to celebrate than with a sweet treat. There are tons of holiday-themed recipes online, so all you have to do is purchase some baking supplies for your friend. Regardless of whether they consider themselves a good baker, making treats during the holidays is a wonderful way to get festive and have fun. As someone who doesn’t consider herself very effective in the kitchen, baking is my favorite Christmas-time activity. To make it easier for them, consider presenting them with this beginner’s cake decorating kit.
