Several stores have already started beating the "holiday gift giving" drum. Its beat is pleasant to those I-got-my-Christmas-shopping-done-in-August people, but for the other 99.9% of us, its tune is - well, annoying. How on earth are you supposed to know what to get for all those people on your list?

1.First, don't ever purchase "random" gifts. Trust me, they don't feel real to the recipient and they will go in the "re-gift" pile as soon as you leave. (No one needs another game, toaster, or puzzle, unless they specifically request it.)

2.Second, avoid clothing at all costs, especially for people that you haven't seen in awhile because you don't know for sure if the item will fit. Robes and slippers are about the only exception to the rule. Husbands and significant others would be very wise to follow this rule no matter how much you like the Victoria's Secret store.

3.Third, for goodness sake, if a woman is on a diet/ trying to lose weight/ just bought an exercise machine, never, ever, ever, purchase her a gift of 10 pounds of chocolate! Come Easter, she will blame the fact she can't lose weight on you. Blame is the gift that keeps on giving (if you know what I mean).

4.Consider doing a gift exchange this year with your family and co-workers. This has multiple bonuses because you save money and the headache of having to purchase a lot of gifts, and best for the recipient, the gift they get will be something that they really want or need. You can truly focus on figuring out what a particular person is into and go all out. (Think of it this way, you can purchase an ipod instead of an itunes gift card).

5.Ask! Everyone has at least a general idea of what they want to get. Ask them to name off at least two things and then you can focus your attention on being the best Santa that you can.

The most important thing to remember this season is keeping the focus. There is no greater gift than the gift of time. For example, if you purchase a remote control item for you child it is only a toy to be cast aside. However, if you spend time teaching them to work the controls and fly it with them for hours on end, then you have given a present they will never forget. Here is another thought. If you give your wife/ husband/ significant other massage oil then treat them to several massages. This makes you the official best gift-giver ever. Simply attach a gift card on the item that says "This gift comes with" and then a way you can make the gift special. Your time is the most important thing that you can give this holiday.