Can we normalize not buying gifts for people you're just in the 'talking stage' with?
By @ediekk · Hot Takes
It's not a relationship. You are not their boyfriend/girlfriend. A 'happy birthday' text is more than enough.
The full story
I'm seeing this happen more and more and it's insane. If you've been on two dates and their birthday is coming up, you do not need to get them a gift. You're not together. The whole point of the talking stage is to see *if* you're even compatible. Buying a thoughtful, expensive gift creates a weird pressure and sense of obligation that has no place in a situationship. Just stop.
How people voted
- Valid Take — 30% (27 votes)
- I’m Torn — 40% (36 votes)
- Bad Take — 30% (27 votes)
Readers are split: “I’m Torn” leads with 40% — 90 votes and 5 comments so far.
What people are saying
@liamok — I'm going to guess you're just cheap and don't like spending money on people.
@ughme — The last girl I was talking to bought me a cologne for my birthday after 3 dates and I felt so awkward about it.
@jettlately — If you are interested in someone, a small token of your appreciation is just good manners.
@violetkinda — Absolutely agree! A nice text is more than enough. It's about getting to know them, not buying their affection.
@codyok2 — What's the cutoff though? Is a $5 coffee a 'gift'?
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